Category: India

The INDIA bloc is considering legal action and organising state-wide joint rallies against Bihar’s voter rolls revision. It has alleged that the revision risks disenfranchising over two crore voters before state elections.

The INDIA bloc is mulling legal action and a statewide campaign in Bihar against the Election Commission’s Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of the electoral rolls, which the opposition alleges could disenfranchise over two crore voters ahead of the upcoming assembly elections.

A day after a delegation of 11 INDIA bloc parties met Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar and other election officials, sources within the alliance confirmed they are considering approaching the courts if their concerns are not addressed.

The alliance, comprising the Congress, Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD), and Left parties in Bihar, is also discussing joint rallies and other forms of public mobilisation to oppose the SIR.

On Thursday, a senior alliance leader said that if the Election Commission continues with the revision process without ensuring safeguards, they would be left with no option but to seek legal recourse. Congress leader Pawan Khera, when asked about the possibility of going to court, said all options remain open.

During the nearly three-hour-long meeting with the Election Commission on Wednesday, the delegation raised strong objections to the timing and implementation of the SIR. Congress spokesperson and senior advocate Abhishek Manu Singhvi alleged that the revision exercise, being conducted months before the state goes to polls, threatens to disenfranchise a minimum of two crore voters, particularly among Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, migrant workers, and those from impoverished backgrounds.

Singhvi argued that many voters would not be able to produce their or their parents’ birth certificates on such short notice and risk having their names removed from the voter list. He also warned that there would be no way to challenge such deletions once the model code of conduct is in place and courts stop entertaining election-related pleas.

Questioning the timing of the SIR, Singhvi pointed out that the last such revision in Bihar was in 2003. “For 22 years, after four or five elections, were all those elections faulty or unreliable?” he asked. He also termed the exercise an attack on the Constitution, calling it a move towards disenfranchisement and disempowerment.

Source : https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/india-bloc-considers-legal-action-rallies-over-bihar-voter-rolls-revision-2750472-2025-07-04

The delegation consisted of leaders from 11 parties, including the Congress, Rashtriya Janata Dal, CPI(M), CPI, CPI(ML) Liberation, NCP (Sharadchandra Pawar) and Samajwadi Party.

Putting up a united front, a delegation of 11 parties from the opposition INDIA bloc met the Election Commission on Wednesday to share their concerns over the large-scale revision of the electoral rolls in Bihar, but came out more unhappy than they were when they went in.

“After meeting the Election Commission, our concerns have increased further because the Commission did not give a satisfactory reply to any of our questions,” CPI(ML) Liberation General Secretary Dipankar Bhattacharya, who went on to call the process ‘votebandi’, said.

Trouble began when the delegation – which included leaders from the Congress, Rashtriya Janata Dal, CPI(M), CPI, CPI(ML) Liberation, NCP (Sharadchandra Pawar) and Samajwadi Party – reached Nirvachan Sadan, the office of the Election Commission in New Delhi, on Wednesday and were told only two members from each party would be allowed in.

“For the first time, we were given rules to enter the Election Commission (EC). For the first time, we were told only party chiefs can go. Such restrictions mean that necessary dialogue between political parties and the EC can’t happen… Today, only two people per party were allowed, which left leaders like Jairam Ramesh, Pawan Khera and Akhilesh Singh standing outside,” Congress leader Abhishek Manu Singhvi said.

The delegation then went in and had a three-hour meeting with Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar and other election commissioners. The leaders told the Commission that the special intensive revision – a targeted voter verification and list-updating process that includes physical verification of voters, document scrutiny, and deletion of ineligible entries – being conducted so close to the assembly elections in Bihar risked leaving voters out and adding ineligible people to the rolls.

“If the last intensive revision was conducted in 2003 and elections happened a year later, why is this being pushed now, with only 2-3 months left before the polls? You didn’t even mention the intensive revision until January, and now suddenly it has been implemented. Why now? We are not against the revision, but it can be done with great care after this election,” Mr Singhvi said, pointing out that there are nearly eight crore voters in Bihar, increasing the risk of errors if the exercise is carried out in such a short timeframe.

Criticising the lack of Aadhaar validation using Aadhaar cards, Mr Singhvi said the EC demands Aadhaar for everything else “but not here – why?”

‘Exclusion’

RJD leader Manoj Jha expressed deep concern over the documentation criteria laid out by the Commission. “If this exercise leads to exclusion rather than inclusion, what is its purpose?” he asked.

Mr Jha warned that most people do not possess the 11 types of documents required for voters not listed in the 2003 electoral rolls and said, “If the intent is to exclude crores of people, you will see a flood of protests on the streets.”

The RJD leader also raised doubts about the Election Commission’s intent and transparency, saying the rationale provided to them was not convincing.

‘Democracy Under Threat’

Perhaps the sharpest criticism came from CPI(ML) Liberation General Secretary Bhattacharya, who called the Election Commission’s explanations “unsatisfactory” and said democracy in the state is under threat.

Mr Bhattacharya said the Commission admitted that 20% of Bihar’s voters reside outside the state, which effectively means they could lose their right to vote. “This is nothing less than ‘votebandi’ for Bihar,” he said, comparing the exercise to the demonetisation, or ‘notebandi’, carried out in 2016.

“There seems to be a failure on our part to convince the Election Commission that one month is not enough for lakhs of voters to submit identification documents. Democracy in Bihar is under threat. A major people’s movement is now necessary,” he said.

To a question by NDTV about the possibility of going to court to challenge the exercise, Mr Singhvi, who is a senior advocate in the Supreme Court, said the delegation would decide on legal options “at a later stage”.

Replying to the same question, Mr Jha said, “This is not the place to say these things. We will decide and inform the media.”

Poll Panel Response

In a statement after the meeting, the Election Commission said the special intensive revision (SIR) is being done following the proper provisions and all concerns brought up by the leaders of the parties were addressed.

“The SIR is being conducted in accordance with the provisions of Article 326, Representation of the People Act 1950 and instructions issued on 24.06.2025. The party representatives raised various concerns related to SIR. Each concern which was raised by any member of the political party was fully addressed by the Commission,” the poll body said.

On the issue of two members being allowed in, the panel said it was to ensure a plurality of viewpoints.

Source : https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/bihar-assembly-elections-votebandi-india-bloc-vs-poll-body-on-electoral-roll-revision-in-bihar-8815644

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on on Wednesday received Ghana’s highest civilian honour, the Officer of the Order of the Star of Ghana, from President John Mahama. He thanked the President and called the award a great honour and a “matter of immense pride”.

“It is a matter of immense pride and honour for me to be conferred with Ghana’s highest honour… I express my deep gratitude to President Mahama, the Government of Ghana and the people of Ghana. I humbly accept this honour on behalf of 1.4 billion Indians,” PM Modi said.

He said he dedicated the award to the youth of both countries.

“I dedicate this award to the aspirations of our youth, their bright future, our rich cultural diversity and traditions and the historic ties between India and Ghana,” he said.

Later PM Modi tweeted,”I thank the people and Government of Ghana for conferring ‘The Officer of the Order of the Star of Ghana’ upon me. This honour is dedicated to the bright future of our youth, their aspirations, our rich cultural diversity and the historical ties between India and Ghana. ”

“This honour is also a responsibility, to keep working towards a stronger India-Ghana friendship. India will always stand with the people of Ghana and continue to contribute as a trusted friend and development partner,” he adds

This marks the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Ghana in more than three decades. The trip aims to strengthen India-Ghana ties and reaffirm New Delhi’s commitment to Africa and the Global South.

President Mahama welcomed PM Modi and said the visit reflected the long-standing friendship between the countries.

“This visit is a testament to the deep-rooted historical ties between Ghana and India founded on the visionary leadership of Ghana’s first President Dr. Kwame Nkrumah and India’s former Prime Minister Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, as well as the ever-growing bonds of friendship and cooperation that exist between our two sisterly countries for the mutual benefit of our people,” he said.

During a joint press briefing with Ghanaian President John Mahama, PM Modi said India would expand cooperation with Ghana in key sectors including agriculture, education, defence, healthcare and digital payments.

Source : https://www.livemint.com/news/world/jaishankar-says-india-will-cross-that-bridge-on-senator-lindsey-graham-s-500-tariff-bill-russian-oil-import-tariff-11751523584623.html

Sigachi Industries management said that the total death toll in the mishap was 40 and the total number of injured was 33.

Hyderabad The Telangana government on Wednesday constituted an expert committee to investigate the explosion that occurred in Sigachi Industries Ltd at Pashamylaram in Sangareddy district Monday claiming 38 lives and leaving 34 others injured.

The management of Sigachi Industries on Wednesday issued a statement stating the total toll in the mishap was 40 and the total number of injured was 33. It also announced payment of Rs1 crore to the families of each of the victims towards ex-gratia compensation.

“Those injured would get full medical support and rehabilitation,” Sigachi Industries Ltd company secretary Vivek Kumar said in the statement.

A government order issued by chief secretary K Ramakrishna Rao in the evening said the committee would be headed by CSIR-IICT chairman and emeritus scientist B Venkateswar Rao and comprise chief scientist from IICT T Prathap Kumar, retired scientist from central leather research institute Surya Narayana and safety officer of National Chemical Laboratory (NCL) Santosh Ghuge as members.

The GO said the experts committee will identify the causes and establish reasons and the events that lead to the major explosion that occurred in Sigachi Industries on Monday.

“It shall find out whether the Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) for worker safety was followed or not in the industrial unit and whether there is any absence or lack of or violation of compliance of chemical and industrial processes that are required to be followed by the company management in the industrial unit,” it said.

The committee was asked to recommend a way forward to prevent such incidents in future in similar chemical and pharma industrial units. “The committee shall examine the management, staff and workers of the company, interact with various consultants, organisations and individuals during its enquiry and submit a detailed report within one month to the government,” the order said.

Meanwhile, Sigachi management said that it was actively coordinating the emergency response, offering support to families, and cooperating with the ongoing investigation and regulatory compliance processes.

The company also issued a clarification regarding the cause of the explosion. “As we await the results of the investigation, we would like to clarify that the accident was not caused by a reactor explosion at the plant, as mentioned in sections of the media,” it said.

The firm added that operations at the Pashamylaram plant would remain suspended for approximately 90 days.

The Sangareddy police, based on a complaint by a family member of one of the victims, on Monday registered an FIR against the factory management in connection with the explosion under Sections 105 (culpable homicide not amounting to murder), 110 (attempting to commit culpable homicide), and 117 (Voluntarily causing grievous hurt) of BNS.

Meanwhile, vice chairman and whole-time director of Sigachi Industries Chidambarnathan Shanmuganathan told reporters that the company will take full responsibility for the ghastly accident that took place at its Pashamylaram facility.

“We are not going to run away or shirk our responsibility. We are with every employee and we shall take care of all their needs and requirements,” he said.

Stating that Sigachi Industries had been operating for the last 35 years, Shanmuganathan said there was not a single instance of any mishap in the factory in these years. “It is our misfortune that it happened for the first time. We do not know what happened. We shall deeply discuss and find out the reasons,” he said.

Sigachi vice-chairman denied the allegations that nobody from the top management had come to the plant after the accident. He said he came to the site at around 10 am on the day of the mishap and was there for about four hours, till the rescued workers were shifted to hospitals.

“I went to different hospitals, talked to doctors and told them that the company would do whatever it could for the treatment of the injured. Even on Tuesday, I was there at the site at 4.30 am. I talked to the district collector, superintendent of police and commissioner of labour. I went back home, as I was suffering from diarrhoea, but deputed three of my senior officials to be there at the time of chief minister A Revanth Reddy’s visit to the plant,” he claimed.

Shanmuganathan said there was absolutely no negligence on the part of the management, which had taken good care of the employees and workers in the last 35 years and earned their goodwill and support. He, however, feigned ignorance about whether the plant had renewed its no-objection certificate.

On the possible reasons for the explosion, the Sigachi vice-president said he would not like to comment on that as it was for the experts to find out. “We are not ruling out anything, including the possibility of any sabotage. The experts and equipment suppliers are visiting the site to inspect. They will be able to tell what exactly happened,” he said.

Source : https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/panel-to-probe-sigachi-blast-says-t-gana-toll-now-40-factory-101751482232788.html

The study examines the long-term effects of fluoxetine in rat brains when administered at a young age

Antidepressants have strong impact on male brains — with the nature of the impact depending on the age of the subject — but do not affect female brains, a new study of rats has shown, suggesting that there needs to be more exploration of the physiological effects of such drugs, something that could eventually influence how they are used in treatments.

Source : https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/antidepressants-affect-male-brains-but-do-little-to-female-brains-study-101751481813708.html

SpiceJet says the panel was a non-structural cosmetic part and was fixed after landing.

Passengers aboard the Pune-bound SpiceJet flight SG-1080 travelling from Goa to Pune on Tuesday suffered a scare after a window frame on the flight popped out mid-air, the newspaper Indian Express said in a report.

The report citing a statement by the airline said that there was no cabin depressurisation as the outer layers of the windowpane remained intact and passenger safety was not compromised.

The newspaper spoke to flyer who said that a mother who was sitting with her child was concerned as she was in close proximity to the window. “I was travelling back from Goa to Pune after attending an event. A woman was sitting behind me and she was with a baby. Half an hour after takeoff, the window (close to her) just popped out. The woman got scared and it was concerning. There is a protective layer behind the window that protects us from the elements outside, and it was intact, but it is still concerning. This is not done,” the flyer, named Mandar Sawant, was quoted as saying by the newspaper.

“The flight attendants tried to calm us down, but what else will they even do? They moved the woman and her child to a different seat behind. The stewardess did manage to somewhat get the window back on, but any sudden movement and it probably would have fallen off again,” Sawant was quoted as saying by the Indian Express.

“We got to know at the airport that the flight was delayed the previous day as well due to ‘technical issues,” he further added, pointing out that the flight was originally scheduled for 5.20 pm on July 1, departed an hour and a half late at 6.55 pm and that he did not get any message or update from the airline that the flight was delayed.

“A cosmetic window frame on one of SpiceJet’s Q400 aircraft became loose during flight and was found dislodged. It is important to note that this was a non-structural trim component, fitted onto the window for the purpose of shade, and did not compromise the safety or integrity of the aircraft in any way. Cabin pressurisation remained normal throughout the flight, and there was no impact on passenger safety,” a SpiceJet official was quoted as saying by the newspaper.

Source : https://www.news18.com/cities/spicejet-flight-window-panel-comes-loose-mid-air-airline-assures-no-cabin-pressure-loss-ws-kl-9417314.html

Delhi Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa said the Delhi government will urge the Supreme Court not to penalise residents for what he described as the negligence of the earlier administration.

After Delhi’s fuel ban on overage vehicles came into effect, Delhi Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa on Wednesday slammed the the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) for what he called years of inaction on the issue of end-of-life vehicles clogging the city’s roads. “The current crisis is a direct result of the previous government’s failure to plan and act in time,” Sirsa said. “Unfortunately, the people of Delhi are now bearing the consequences.”
Sirsa said the Delhi government will urge the Supreme Court not to penalise residents for what he described as the negligence of the earlier administration. He added that the current government is working urgently and with full commitment to address the problem.
“Our objective is clear—to make Delhi pollution-free within the given timeline and ensure relief for the public,” he said.

Delhi’s fuel ban on overage vehicles came into effect on Tuesday, with authorities impounding 80 vehicles on the first day as part of a major crackdown to reduce air pollution, reports PTI.
The action follows a directive from the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM), which bars petrol pumps from selling fuel to end-of-life (EoL) vehicles – diesel vehicles older than 10 years and petrol vehicles older than 15 years.
According to officials, 98 overage vehicles were identified using surveillance systems, and 80 were impounded – 45 by the Transport Department, 34 by Delhi Police, and one by the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD).
The fuel ban does not apply to vehicles running on CNG.

Special Commissioner of Police (Traffic) Ajay Chaudhary said the goal is to improve Delhi’s air quality. From November 1, the fuel ban will extend to areas surrounding the capital.

Source : https://www.timesnownews.com/india/delhi-govt-to-urge-supreme-court-to-not-penalise-resident-manjinder-singh-sirsa-on-fuel-ban-for-overage-vehicles-article-152201375

Investigators confirmed that the aircraft’s ram air turbine (RAT) — an emergency power source that activates only when both engines fail — deployed seconds before the crash, supporting the dual-engine failure theory.

The initial probe into the Air India plane crash hints at a possible simultaneous failure of both engines as the likely cause of the fatal accident that killed 241 people of 242 onboard the Ahmedabad-London flight. Sources within the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) told Times Now that early findings suggest towards engine failure.

President Donald Trump has indicated optimism for a trade agreement with India, suggesting it could involve significantly reduced tariffs.

US President Donald Trump has hinted at a potential trade deal with India that would involve “much lower tariffs.” Speaking to reporters on Tuesday, he said the two countries “are going to have a deal,” despite the ongoing negotiation deadlock between them.
Speaking to reporters aboad Air Force One, Trump said, “I think we are going to have a deal with India. And that is going to be a different kind of a deal. And that is going to be a different kind of deal. It is going to be a deal where we are able to go in and compete. Right now, India does not accept anybody in. I think India is going to do that, and if they do not, we are going to have a deal for much less tariffs.”

Delegations from India and the US have been engaged in negotiations for a bilateral trade agreement, despite the ongoing freeze on Trump’s proposed ‘Liberation Day’ tariffs.

Notably, Trump’s 90-day pause on the tariffs is set to end on July 9.
An Indian delegation, headed by chief negotiator Rajesh Agrawal, is actively working to finalise the trade agreement with the US ahead of the July 9 deadline. According to ANI, the team has reportedly extended its stay in Washington to ensure the deal is signed and formalised.
If India and the US fail to reach a deal by July 9, Trump’s 26 percent tariff on Indian goods will take effect, leaving minimal room for further negotiations. Despite ongoing negotiations, trade talks have hit a deadlock following India’s refusal to open its dairy sector to foreign countries.

Source : https://www.timesnownews.com/india/india-trade-deal-back-on-track-trump-promises-much-less-tariffs-amid-deadlock-article-152196661

Amit Shah congratulated the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) global drug cartel bust in which eight people were arrested. The US and Australia acted on India’s leads in Operation Med Max involving crypto, drop-shipping and digital trafficking.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Tuesday congratulated the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) for busting a sprawling international drug cartel, calling it a shining example of multi-agency coordination under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership.

The NCB-led operation, codenamed Med Max, dismantled a global pharmaceutical trafficking network that spanned over four continents and more than ten countries, leading to eight arrests and the seizure of 48 consignments.

Amit Shah wrote on X, “Congratulations to NCB and all agencies on busting a global drug cartel. The probe set a stellar example of multi-agency coordination, resulting in 8 arrests and seizures of 5 consignments while triggering crackdowns in the US and Australia against the ring that operates across 4 continents and 10+ nations. Our agencies are constantly monitoring the sophisticated modes like crypto payments and anonymous drop shippers used by these gangs.”

The US Embassy India official thanked the NCB and Indian authorities. It wrote, “Thanks to NCB and Indian authorities for helping protect Americans against illegal drugs and saving American lives!”

The cartel used encrypted apps, cryptocurrency, and international drop-shipping to smuggle-controlled medicines from India to countries including the USA, Australia, and several European nations. The operation began with a routine vehicle check near Mandi House in Delhi on May 25, where NCB officials intercepted two individuals with 3.7 kilograms of Tramadol tablets. Both were B. Pharma graduates and confessed to running a vendor profile on a popular Indian B2B platform to sell drugs overseas.

Further investigation led to key arrests in Roorkee, Delhi, and Udupi, Karnataka, where a call centre was discovered to be managing international orders. Data retrieved from the suspects revealed 50 international shipments – 29 within the US, 18 within Australia, and one each to Spain, Estonia, and Switzerland. This information was shared with global agencies and Interpol, triggering raids abroad.

In Alabama, US authorities arrested a re-shipper, Joel Hall, and seized over 17,000 tablets of controlled medicines. In parallel, Australian law enforcement dismantled an illegal pill-manufacturing unit linked to the same syndicate. Five suspicious parcels containing Zolpidem tablets were also intercepted in the US. The US Embassy in India thanked Indian authorities for helping save American lives through their timely action.

The syndicate operated with a structured digital and financial system. Orders were taken via a B2B platform with premium listings to attract global clients. Payments were made in cryptocurrency, routed through layered commissions to suppliers and re-shippers across different nations. Repeat buyers were often groomed to become logistics partners, helping the network expand organically.

Source : https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/amit-shah-congratulates-ncb-busting-global-drug-cartel-us-thanks-india-2749847-2025-07-03

The Calcutta High Court on Tuesday ordered cricketer Mohammed Shami to pay an interim maintenance of ₹4 lakh per month to his estranged wife and minor daughter.

Justice Dr Ajoy Kumar Mukherjee revised the trial court order which had directed Shami to pay ₹1,30,000 as maintenance to his wife and daughter.

The High Court directed that ₹1,50,000 be paid to the wife and ₹2,50,000 to the daughter till the disposal of the case relating to domestic violence against Shami.

“In my considered opinion, a sum of Rs. 1,50,000/- per month to the petitioner no.1(wife) and Rs. 2,50,000 to her daughter would be just fair and reasonable to ensure financial stability for both the petitioners, till disposal of the main application. Such amount is to be paid by the opposite party/husband form the date of filing of the application under section 23 of the PWDV Act [Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act],” the Court said.

If Shami wants to contribute more towards his daughter’s educational or any other expense, he is at liberty to do so, the Court said.

The Bench passed the order while dealing with a plea filed by Shami’s wife challenging a sessions court order directing him to pay a total interim maintenance of ₹1,30,000.

Notably, this amount was an increase from the order of a magistrate who had directed the cricketer to pay ₹80,000 as interim maintenance to his daughter and nothing to his wife.

Shami married his estranged wife in April 2014 and they had a girl child in July 2015. This was the woman’s second wedding and she had two daughters from the previous marriage.

In 2018, she accused the cricketer of domestic violence, following which an FIR was registered against him.

She then filed an application before the magistrate under the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act (PWDV Act), seeking interim maintenance of ₹10 lakh – ₹7 lakh for herself and ₹3 lakh for her daughter.

After considering the case, the High Court said that the basis on which the trial court awarded a meagre maintenance amount was unclear in the context of the incomes of the two sides.

“The opposite party/husband’s income, financial disclosure and earnings established that he is in a position to pay a higher amount. The petitioner wife who has remained un-married and is living independently with the child is entitled to a levelled maintenance that she enjoyed during her continuance of marriage and which reasonably secure her future as well as future of the child,” the Bench said.

Therefore, it increased the maintenance amount and ordered the trial court to decide the woman’s main application as soon as possible.

Source : https://www.barandbench.com/news/karuvannur-bank-scam-kerala-high-court-closes-plea-for-cbi-probe

Delegations from India and US have been negotiating a bilateral trade agreement between both nations amid the freeze on Donald Trump’s ‘Liberation Day’ tariffs.

US President Donald Trump has hinted towards trade deal with India which will have “much less tariffs.” Speaking to reporters on Tuesday, the US president said that India and US “are going to have a deal” amid the ongoing negotiation deadlock between the two nations.

“I think we are going to have a deal with India. And that is going to be a different kind of a deal. It is going to be a deal where we are able to go in and compete. Right now, India does not accept anybody in. I think India is going to do that, and if they do that, we are going to have a deal for much less tariffs,” Trump told reporters abroad Air Force One.

Teams and delegations from India and US have been negotiating a bilateral trade agreement between both nations amid the freeze on Trump’s ‘Liberation Day’ tariffs.

Trump’s 90-day pause on the tariffs is set to end on July 9.

India-US BTA in the works

An Indian delegation led by chief negotiator Rajesh Agrawal continues to work towards finalising the trade agreement with the US ahead of the July 9 deadline. As per ANI, the team has reportedly also extended its stay in Washington in order to get this deal signed and formalised.

If India and the US do not strike a deal by July 9, Trump’s 26 percent tariff on Indian goods would become applicable, with very little space left for negotiations.

Despite the negotiations, the trade deal talks have come to a deadlock after India’s refusal to open its dairy sector for foreign countries.

The US has demanded for reduced duties in the dairy sector, which India has never opened for any trade partner before. Furthermore, Washington is also pushing for reduced duties on agricultural products, including apples, tree nuts, and genetically modified crops.

Source : https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/trump-hints-at-trade-deal-with-india-with-much-less-tariffs-amid-deadlock-101751417612418.html

Tamil Nadu Police arrested Abubacker Siddique, the state’s most wanted terrorist, from a remote hideout in Andhra Pradesh after nearly three decades on the run.

In a major victory against long-standing terror networks, the Tamil Nadu Police’s Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) on Tuesday arrested Abubacker Siddique, the state’s most wanted terrorist, from a remote hideout in Andhra Pradesh after nearly three decades on the run.

Siddique (60), a native of Nagore, was apprehended along with Mohammed Ali (alias Yunus or Mansoor), another fugitive wanted in several terror-related cases.

Acting on specific intelligence inputs, the ATS traced and arrested the duo in the Annamayya district of Andhra Pradesh.

Siddique, a skilled bomb-maker and radical ideologue, had been on the run since 1995 and carried a reward of Rs 5 lakh. He is believed to be the mastermind behind multiple high-profile terrorist incidents in Tamil Nadu and neighbouring states.

He also played a central role in mentoring several key radical operatives, including Bilal Malik, ‘Police’ Fakruddin, and Panna Ismail.

Police sources described Siddique’s arrest as a significant development in counter-terrorism efforts, given his involvement in a series of deadly attacks, including the 1995 bombing at the Hindu Munnani office in Chintadripet, Chennai, and a parcel bomb blast in Nagore that same year, which killed a man named Thangam.

He was also involved in coordinating bomb-planting operations at seven locations across Chennai, Trichy, Coimbatore, and parts of Kerala in 1999, including an attempt to target the Chennai Police Commissioner’s Office in Egmore.

Tamil Nadu Police also said that the terror operative was behind the failed assassination attempt on former Deputy Prime Minister L.K. Advani during his Rath Yatra in Madurai in 2011.

He was also charged with the 2012 murder of Dr. Arvind Reddy in Vellore. The fugutive was was on the run was also involved in the 2013 bomb blast near the BJP office in Malleswaram, Bengaluru. Mohammed Ali, hailing from Melapalayam in Tirunelveli, had been on the run for 26 years and is also named in the 1999 multi-location bombing case.

Both men have been linked to efforts to incite communal unrest and execute targeted attacks against political and religious figures. The arrests come as a major morale boost for law enforcement agencies and are expected to open the door for progress in several stalled investigations.

Senior officials said the operation is a testament to the ATS’s sustained intelligence-gathering and coordination efforts across states.

Siddique and Ali will be produced before a judicial magistrate and remanded to custody. Their interrogation is expected to yield crucial insights into the workings of terror modules in southern India.

Source : https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/tamil-nadus-most-wanted-terrorist-abubacker-siddique-arrested-after-30-years-8809588

Owners of hotels, dhabas, eateries on carts and stalls along the pilgrimage route will have to display a clean copy of their license or registration certificate at a prominent place in his establishment so that consumers can easily see it.

The Uttarakhand government has made it mandatory for eateries on the Kanwar Yatra route in the state to prominently display their food licenses or registration certificates at their business establishments.

Owners of hotels, dhabas, eateries on carts and stalls along the pilgrimage route will have to display a clean copy of their license or registration certificate at a prominent place in his establishment so that consumers can easily see it, Health Secretary and Commissioner Food Safety and Drug Administration R Rajesh Kumar said.

Small traders and cart stall owners will also have to keep and display their registration certificates with them.

‘Food Safety Display Board’ should also be installed in hotels, eateries, dhabas and restaurants at a clearly visible place, so that the customer can know who is responsible for the quality of food.

Action will be taken against businessmen who do not follow these instructions under Section 55 of the Food Safety Act 2006, in which a fine of up to Rs 2 lakh can be imposed, the official said.

All officials concerned should ensure that these orders are strictly followed, Mr Kumar said.

There will be no compromise with the quality of food served to devotees at pandals and community kitchens or bhandaras, he said.

“Immediate legal action will be taken against adulterators and those who tamper with the standards. The health of the pilgrims is our top priority,” he said.

Source : https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/food-licenses-display-must-for-uttarakhand-eateries-on-kanwar-yatra-route-8810230

Manipur follows a process of issuing Aadhaar to adults that is considered the “most stringent” in the country, a senior official of the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) said at a meeting with Governor AK Bhalla in the state capital Imphal on Tuesday.

For minors, the state makes it a must for parents or guardians to update their details – free of cost – when they are between 5 and 7 years old, and after turning 15, the state government said.

“It was also noted that each case of adult Aadhaar has to be mandatorily scrutinised and approved only at the level of State HQ in the office of Special Secretary Home,” the Manipur government said in a statement on Tuesday.

One of the UIDAI officials present in the meeting observed that “Manipur’s adult Aadhaar process is perhaps the most stringent in the country.”

The high-quality checks and scrutiny process ensure that no illegal foreigners are able to obtain Aadhaar, the government said.

Based on the guidelines of the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) and the UIDAI, the “rigorous scrutiny in Manipur ensures that approval is granted only after detailed verification of Aadhaar applications,” it said.

Those who attended the meeting at the Raj Bhawan included the chief secretary, and senior officers from the home department, UIDAI, social welfare, and education departments.

The Manipur government’s statement comes days after Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma in neighbouring Assam said they are planning to empower only district commissioners (DCs) to issue Aadhaar to adults, a move that could prevent illegal immigrants from obtaining the unique biometric identity number.

Manipur shares 400 km of the 1,640 km-long India-Myanmar border. Fencing along the mostly porous border has started, and is expected to take a couple of years to fence the entire length.

Illegal immigration and people using fake Aadhaar have been major issues in Manipur, where Meitei-Kuki ethnic violence broke out in May 2023.

A Myanmarese national who was arrested in Mizoram on June 24 for drug trafficking was found with an Aadhaar card in his name which was issued in Manipur.

In June 2024, a huge racket of issuing fake Aadhaar and voter identity cards to illegal immigrants in Manipur was busted. Investigators released samples of the fake identity cards held by two Myanmar nationals, who were found living among locals in a district in Manipur.

Source : https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/perhaps-most-stringent-in-the-country-says-uidai-official-on-manipur-aadhaar-process-for-adults-8810490

External affairs minister Jaishankar further said that victims and perpetrators of terrorism “must never be equated”.

External affairs minister S Jaishankar, ahead of the Quad foreign ministerial meeting in Washington DC, said that the world must display zero tolerance toward terrorism.

Jaishankar’s remarks in the US come against the backdrop of India’s recently concluded global outreach programme on Operation Sindoor, a military action launched against the April 22 Pahalgam terrorist attack that took place in Jammu and Kashmir.

The union minister further said that victims and perpetrators of terrorism “must never be equated”.

Earlier in the day, Jaishankar had noted that terrorists cannot be allowed to function with impunity. “The idea that they are on that side of the border, and that, therefore, sort of prevents retribution, I think, that’s a proposition that needs to be challenged and that is what we did,” he said while referring to India’s Operation Sindoor and counter-terrorism efforts.

The external affairs minister once again, in Washington, affirmed that India has every right to defend its people against terrorism, saying that the nation will exercise that right.

During his conversation with Newsweek CEO Dev Pragad in New York earlier, Jaishankar asserted that India will “no longer fall for nuclear blackmail” when it comes to fighting the rise of cross-border terrorism sponsored by terrorism.

“Now we are not going to fall for that. If he is going to come and do things, we are going to go there and also hit the people who did this. So no yielding to nuclear blackmail, no impunity to terrorists, no more free pass that they are proxies. And we will do what we have to do to defend our people,” Jaishankar said.

India’s ‘new normal’ against terrorism

India set a “new normal” way for responding to terrorism from Pakistan by raising the cost for all cross-border terrorism acts with Operation Sindoor.

The Indian armed forces had launched precision strikes on terrorist infrastructure belonging to outfits like Jaish-e-Mohammed, Lashkar-e-Taiba, and Hizbul Mujahideen, early on May 7.

‘Operation Sindoor’ was launched in response to the deadly terrorist attack that took place in Pahalgam’s Baisaran on April 22, leaving 26 people, mostly civilians, dead.

In an attempt to launch a retaliatory attack, Pakistan attacked Indian military bases on May 8, 9, and 10, triggering an even stronger response from the Indian side.

India targeted Pakistani military facilities ranging from air defense systems to radar sites and command and control centres.

After four days of intense cross-border fighting, Pakistan’s Director General of Military Operations reached out to his Indian counterpart over the hotline for a ceasefire. Following discussion and deliberations, a ceasefire was reached between the two countries on May 10.

Source : https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/world-must-display-zero-tolerance-towards-terrorism-s-jaishankar-in-us-101751380581315.html

On April 22, terrorists opened fire and killed 26 people, mostly tourists, at the Baisaran meadow in Pahalgam town of Jammu and Kashmir.

Foreign ministers of the Quad grouping – US, India, Japan and Australia – on Wednesday condemned the April 22 terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir’s Pahalgam that killed 26 civilians.

In a joint statement, the foreign ministers of the US, India, Japan and Australia urged that those behind the April 22 Pahalgam terrorist attack be brought to justice.

The Quad joint statement said they call for perpetrators, organisers, and financiers of April 22 Pahalgam attack to be brought to justice.

On April 22, terrorists opened fire and killed 26 people, mostly tourists, at the Baisaran meadow in Pahalgam town of Jammu and Kashmir. The terrorists were found to have links with Pakistan.

In response to the Pahalgam attack, India on May 7 launched ‘Operation Sindoor’, under which the Indian armed forces successfully targetted several terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Tuesday met with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio on the sidelines of the Quad foreign ministers’ meeting, during which they discussed bilateral partnership and shared perspectives on regional and global developments.

Jaishankar is visiting the US from June 30 to July 2 at the invitation of Marco Rubio.

“A pleasure meeting US @SecRubio this afternoon, on the sidelines of Quad Foreign Ministers’ meeting,” Jaishankar posted on X.

Jaishankar said during the meeting they discussed India-US bilateral partnership including trade, security, critical technologies, connectivity, energy and mobility, and “shared perspectives on regional and global developments”.

Jaishankar also met with US Secretary of Defence Pete Hegseth during which they discussed advancing the defence partnership between the two countries.

Source : https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/quad-foreign-ministers-jaishankar-condemn-pahalgam-attack-perpetrators-financiers-brought-to-justice-101751415063785.html

A young couple from Pakistan, aged 17 and 15, tragically died in the Tanot area of the Thar Desert while attempting to cross into India for a new life.

A minor couple from Pakistan, who embarked on a journey crossing the border that goes through the Thar Desert on foot, were found dead in the Tanot area. Eager to start a new life in India, 17-year-old Ravi Kumar and 15-year-old Shanta Bai braved harsh conditions, managing to cross into Jaisalmer. However, unforgiving environment ultimately proved fatal, with the couple reportedly succumbing to dehydration, according to a local activist, PTI reported.
Superintendent of Police (SP) Chaudhary said that the boy’s body was found under a tree. He was wearing a sky-blue salwar kurta. A yellow scarf and a mobile phone were also found near the body, with an empty jerrycan, possibly containing water earlier, near his face. About 50 feet away, police found the body of the girl wearing a yellow ghaghra-kurta and red-and-white bangles.
Both bodies appeared to be several days old, having turned black due to decomposition to the point that facial recognition was not possible. Pakistani identification cards were found near the bodies. The police suspect the couple died due to dehydration.

The incident unfolded around 80 nautical miles east of Fujairah, UAE, when the tanker issued a Mayday distress call following a massive fire outbreak in its engine room. The alert was picked up by INS Tabar, which was already in the region on a mission-based deployment.

In a dramatic high-seas operation, the Indian Navy on June 29 successfully led a critical firefighting and rescue mission aboard the Palau-flagged oil tanker MT Yi Cheng 6 in the North Arabian Sea, ensuring the safety of all 14 Indian crew members on board.
The incident unfolded around 80 nautical miles east of Fujairah, UAE, when the tanker issued a Mayday distress call following a massive fire outbreak in its engine room. The alert was picked up by INS Tabar, which was already in the region on a mission-based deployment.
The Navy responded with remarkable speed and precision, racing to the tanker’s location and launching a full-scale firefighting operation. Upon arrival, seven crew members were swiftly evacuated from the burning vessel using the ship’s boats. Medical teams aboard INS Tabar examined the rescued seafarers—none were injured.

The remaining crew, including the ship’s Master, stayed aboard to assist the Indian Navy in firefighting efforts.
INS Tabar initially deployed a six-member damage control team, equipped with advanced firefighting gear. As smoke and flames engulfed the engine room, the team, along with the tanker’s crew, managed to contain the fire’s spread. Reinforcements soon followed—13 additional naval personnel (including five officers and eight sailors) joined the effort.
Thanks to their relentless and coordinated action, the fire was brought under control. The situation is now stable, and INS Tabar continues to monitor temperatures and provide on-site support.
This high-risk operation highlights the Indian Navy’s operational readiness, rapid response capability, and its steadfast commitment to maritime safety. It also reaffirms India’s growing role as the ‘First Responder’ in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).

Source : https://www.timesnownews.com/india/high-seas-heroics-indian-navy-battles-fire-rescues-entire-crew-from-oil-tanker-article-152193934

India has launched e-passports equipped with microchips to store biometric data, promising faster immigration and enhanced security for travellers. Citizens can now apply online through the Passport Seva portal as part of the Passport Seva Programme 2.0.

Anil Ambani-led Reliance Defence has entered a joint venture with US defence contractor Coastal Mechanics to offer advanced maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) services for over 200 Indian military aircraft and helicopters, marking a significant push under ‘Make in India’ and ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ initiatives.

In a strategic boost to India’s defence infrastructure, Reliance Defence, part of Anil Ambani’s Reliance Infrastructure Group, has signed a landmark partnership with US-based Coastal Mechanics to enter India’s Rs 20,000 crore military maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) market.
The joint venture (JV), to be located at the Multi-modal International Cargo Hub and Airport at Nagpur (MIHAN) in Maharashtra, will focus on upgrading and maintaining over 200 Indian Air Force and Army aircraft, including Jaguar and MiG-29 fighter jets, Apache attack helicopters, and legacy systems like the L-70 air defence guns, reported the Financial Express.
This collaboration is a powerful alignment with the ‘Make in India’ and ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ policies and is aimed at reducing India’s dependency on foreign MRO services.

Following the successful busting of the Rs 943 crore worth of illegal dabba trading and online betting racket operating from Surat, the Special Operation Group (SOG) of Surat city police has taken the case to a national level by presenting key evidence before the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI).

Following the successful busting of the Rs 943 crore worth of illegal dabba trading and online betting racket operating from Surat, the Special Operation Group (SOG) of Surat city police has taken the case to a national level by presenting key evidence before the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI). In a significant development, the main accused was brought to Surat after being arrested in Mirzapur (UP) on a transit remand.

The accused is now under five-day police remand, approved by the court, as investigators dig deeper into the decade-old scam that was operating openly under the cover of a construction firm — Sunrise Developers.

“This racket wasn’t just illegal—it was highly organized and deeply entrenched. We are now focusing on uncovering the full chain of operatives and investors,” said Police Inspector Atul Sonara, leading the investigation.

Sunrise Developers, the so-called construction firm, was merely a front. Police say the accused lured unsuspecting investors with promises of high returns and tax-free income. What appeared to be real estate dealings was, in fact, a sophisticated illegal trading network, violating SEBI norms and possibly engaging in hawala and money laundering operations.

“A decade-long financial racket masked under a fake construction firm has finally begun to unravel,” says Police Inspector Atul Sonara.

The masterminds have been identified as Nandlal alias Nando Gevaria and Vishal Gevaria. The investigation revealed the use of digital platforms, WhatsApp, call centers, and fake documentation to pull off this high-stakes scam.

“The role of SEBI is crucial here. This is a non-licensed trading network operating illegally on a massive scale,” Sonara added.

A huge cache of evidence has been seized including 19 mobile phones,4 laptops,87 chequebooks and 31 passbooks,₹10 lakh in cash, and a paper-cutting machine allegedly used to destroy evidence.

Police are now probing several critical angles such as the identity of all investors over the last 10 years, technology platforms used in the racket (websites, apps), possible involvement of bank officials or brokers, international money trails and hawala links,additional absconding accused, including Javed alias JD and Parimal Kapadia.

Source : https://www.freepressjournal.in/india/surat-943-crore-dabba-trading-scam-sog-briefs-sebi-on-nationwide-financial-fraud

The Gujarat High Court on Monday initiated suo motu contempt of court proceedings against Senior Advocate Bhaskar Tanna for allegedly drinking beer during a virtual hearing.

A Bench of Justices AS Supehia and RT Vachhani termed Tanna’s conduct as outrageous and barred him from appearing before them through virtual mode.

The Court said that the order will be placed before the Chief Justice, and if permitted, the same will be circulated to other benches as well.

“Till further orders are passed, we restrict the appearance of Shri Bhaskar Tanna to appear through virtual mode before this bench. The registry shall apprise the honourable Chief Justice about the present order. In case the honourable chief justice permits, the present order shall be circulated to Principal Private Secretaries and Private Secretaries of other respective benches,” the order stated.

It directed the Registry to issue notice to Tanna and said that his Senior Advocate designation would be reconsidered.

“Thus, the indecent act of Shri Bhaskar Tanna has very wide ramifications as it has travelled beyond the precincts of this prestigious institution. If the act which dents the glory and dignity of the institution is disregarded, it will be destructive to the rule of law and the institution will collapse,” the Court said.

A video shows Tanna appearing before Justice Sandeep Bhatt on June 26 sipping beer from a mug.

The Division Bench today said that Tanna’s alleged act affects the younger members of the Bar who look up to senior lawyers as role models.

“Such an act indubitably affects the young lawyer as the bar takes the senior counsel as the role model and mentors. The demeanour of Shri Tanna indubitably defiles the privilege of senior counsel conferred upon him by this court. In our opinion, the designation of senior counsel conferred on him requires reconsideration.”

Therefore, it ordered the Court’s Registry to register a suo motu contempt case against the lawyer.

Source : https://www.barandbench.com/news/supreme-court-allows-plea-by-m3m-for-substitution-of-property-worth-317-crore-attached-by-ed

High-end diesel and petrol cars registered under an individual’s name, with prices around Rs 1.33 crore and Rs 1.54 crore, respectively, will now attract over Rs 20 lakh in one-time tax, RTO officials said.

High-end cars, CNG/LNG vehicles and goods carriers will become more expensive from July 1 due to the revised one-time tax structure of the Maharashtra government, officials said on Monday.

While the present cap for one-time tax was Rs 20 lakh, it is now Rs 30 lakh, which means cars with an ex-showroom price of more than Rs 20 lakh will get costlier by at least Rs 10 lakh, they said.

High-end diesel and petrol cars registered under an individual’s name, with prices around Rs 1.33 crore and Rs 1.54 crore, respectively, will now attract over Rs 20 lakh in one-time tax, RTO officials said.

In Maharashtra, the one-time tax for petrol cars registered under an individual’s name is 11 per cent for those priced below Rs 10 lakh, 12 per cent for those priced between Rs 10 lakh and Rs 20 lakh, and 13 per cent for those priced above Rs 20 lakh, they added.

For diesel cars, the one-time tax is 13 per cent for those priced below Rs 10 lakh, 14 per cent for those priced between Rs 10 lakh and Rs 20 lakh, and 15 per cent for those priced above Rs 20 lakh.

If a vehicle is imported or registered under a company name, both petrol and diesel vehicles attract a flat one-time tax of 20 percent, regardless of their price, the officials pointed out.

According to RTO officials, cars running on compressed natural gas (CNG) or liquefied natural gas (LNG) will also become slightly more expensive, with a 1 per cent hike in one-time tax across all three price brackets.

Goods carriers such as pickup trucks, tempos with a gross vehicle weight of up to 7,500 kilograms, and construction vehicles like cranes, compressors, and projectors will now be taxed at 7 per cent of their price.

A senior RTO official explained that these vehicles will now be taxed based on their price rather than on their gross vehicle weight, which was the earlier basis.

For example, earlier a pickup vehicle costing around Rs 10 lakh would attract a tax of about Rs 20,000 based on weight, which under the revised structure will be around Rs 70,000, he said.

According to the transport department’s website, the earlier one-time tax ranged from Rs 8,400 to Rs 37,800 for goods vehicles with gross weights between 750 kg and 7,500 kg.

Source : https://www.deccanherald.com/india/maharashtra/maharashtra-revised-one-time-tax-structure-to-make-many-vehicles-costlier-3609597

The deceased, identified as Yash Sharma, a resident of Rani Garden, was attacked on the night of June 27 following a scuffle with the accused over a minor accident involving a scooter.

Two men and a juvenile were apprehended for stabbing a 19-year-old man in east Delhi’s Geeta Colony following a road rage incident, police on Monday said.

The deceased, identified as Yash Sharma, a resident of Rani Garden, was attacked on the night of June 27 following a scuffle with the accused over a minor accident involving a scooter, they said.

“He sustained a deep stab wound on his lower back and was declared brought dead at a hospital,” said a police officer.

The incident occurred near Ambedkar Park, a stretch close to the Geeta Colony flyover, he added.

The officer further said that Yash and his cousin Aman Sharma were returning home on a scooter when it allegedly brushed past one of the accused, identified as Rihan.

“An argument broke out, escalating quickly when three accused, Mohammad Aman, Lucky alias Harshu and a juvenile, started chasing the duo. Mohammad Aman was armed with a knife while Lucky was reportedly carrying a pistol,” he added.

Yash and Aman ran towards the Pusta road near the flyover in a bid to escape, but the former was caught and stabbed by Mohammad Aman, police said.

Bystanders later rushed Yash to the hospital in an autorickshaw, they said.

An FIR was filed and further investigation was taken up, police said.

Acting on a tip-off, a trap was laid on June 28 in the Yamuna Khadar area, leading to the arrest of Mohammad Aman and Lucky along with the apprehension of the 15-year-old juvenile, they said.

One pistol, two live cartridges and the dagger used in the attack were recovered from them, police said.

The accused during interrogation admitted to their involvement in the crime. They revealed that the murder stemmed from the scuffle following the scooter incident, they said.

Source : https://www.deccanherald.com/india/delhi/road-rage-19-year-old-stabbed-to-death-in-delhi-two-men-juvenile-held-3609226

DCP (Yamunapar) Vivek Chandra Yadav said on Monday that strict action would be taken against the accused under the National Security Act (NSA) and the Gangster Act.

Police have arrested 67 individuals and apprehended eight juveniles in connection with vandalism and stone-pelting incident at Bhadeora Bazaar on Sunday after the cops had stopped Nagina MP and Azad Samaj Party chief Chandrashekhar Azad from visiting a village.

DCP (Yamunapar) Vivek Chandra Yadav said on Monday that strict action would be taken against the accused under the National Security Act (NSA) and the Gangster Act. Compensation for damage to public property would also be recovered from the culprits as per legal provisions, he said.

Based on video footage and CCTV evidence, efforts are underway to identify and arrest other individuals involved in the incident, the officer said.

The DCP told PTI that 67 people have been arrested so far in connection with the incident that took place under Karachhana police station limits. Additionally, eight juveniles involved in the violence have been taken into police custody.

The violence broke out after police stopped Chandrashekhar Azad from visiting Isohta village in Karachhana tehsil.

The DCP said workers of Azad’s party had gathered in large numbers in Isohta village after hearing about the MP’s planned visit. When they learned that Chandrashekhar Azad would not be arriving, the crowd became agitated and began pelting stones and damaging property.

He confirmed that a Dial 112 emergency vehicle and another car were damaged in the incident.

The unrest stems from an April 13 incident in which a man named Devishankar from Isohta village died of burn injuries. His family has alleged that he was murdered.

Source : https://www.deccanherald.com/india/uttar-pradesh/67-arrested-8-minors-detained-for-violence-over-mp-chandrashekhar-azad-being-stopped-from-visiting-prayagraj-village-3609508

The untimely death of Shefali Jariwala on June 27 has left the entertainment world in disbelief. Best remembered as the ‘Kaanta Laga’ girl, the 42-year-old reportedly suffered a cardiac arrest late in the evening and was rushed to Bellevue Multispecialty Hospital in Andheri by her husband, actor Parag Tyagi. She was declared dead on arrival.

As police continue to investigate the cause of her sudden death, fresh developments have surfaced, shedding light on a possible link between her long-term anti-ageing treatments and the fatal cardiac arrest.

Friend Pooja Ghai confirms IV drip was administered on the same day

In an interview with Vickey Lalwani, Shefali’s close friend and actor Pooja Ghai revealed that Shefali had taken a vitamin C IV drip on the day of her passing.

“On that day, she did take the drip, the vitamin C. But like I said, it’s a very normal thing to take a vitamin C. I mean, we all take vitamin C, right? I think post-COVID people have just started taking vitamin C as regularly as possible,” she said, adding that she too has taken such drips before.

Police questioned IV drip provider at the scene

Ghai also revealed that police officers present at Shefali’s residence summoned the person who had administered the IV drip.

“While I was standing there, the police guys called for the guy who gave her the IV drip to just check what was the medicine that she was taking, and that’s when it was unfolded that she had taken an IV drip,” she stated.

Anti-ageing treatments not uncommon in the industry

Defending the use of such treatments, Pooja said, “It’s so common. In fact, if you walk down the streets here in Dubai, you see multiple vitamin C drips at regular clinics and salons. She was in a profession where she had to be her best, and she was her best. She looked the best.”

According to reports, police have learned that Shefali had been consuming anti-ageing infusions and medications, including glutathione, for nearly a decade. The reports revealed that on the day of her death, Shefali had observed a fast due to a religious puja at her home, but still went ahead with an injection of anti-ageing medicine in the afternoon — part of a treatment prescribed to her years ago and taken monthly.

Collapsed at home between 10–11 PM, declared dead at hospital

The tragic incident reportedly took place between 10 and 11 PM when Shefali collapsed at home. She was immediately rushed to the hospital by Parag Tyagi but could not be revived.

Source : https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/bollywood/news/shefali-jariwalas-friend-pooja-ghai-confirms-she-took-vitamin-c-iv-drip-hours-before-her-passing-police-questioned-iv-drip-provider-at-the-scene/articleshow/122165933.cms

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is developing a modified version of the Agni-5 intercontinental ballistic missile. The new variant will be a conventional weapon capable of carrying a massive 7500-kilogram bunker-buster warhead.

In the wake of the US deploying GBU-57/A Massive Ordnance Penetrators against Iran’s Fordow nuclear facility on June 22, India is accelerating its own efforts to develop advanced bunker-buster capabilities. Drawing lessons from recent global conflicts, the country is preparing for future wars by building a powerful new missile system capable of penetrating fortified underground targets.

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is developing a modified version of the Agni-5 intercontinental ballistic missile. Unlike the original, which has a range exceeding 5000 kilometres and typically carries nuclear warheads, the new variant will be a conventional weapon capable of carrying a massive 7500-kilogram bunker-buster warhead.

Designed to strike hardened enemy facilities buried beneath layers of reinforced concrete, the missile is expected to penetrate 80 to 100 metres underground before detonation.

This development signals India’s intent to match the capabilities of the United States, which recently used 14 GBU-57s—the world’s largest conventional bunker-buster bombs—in a show of force against Iranian nuclear infrastructure. The GBU-57 and its predecessor, the GBU-43 (popularly known as the “Mother of All Bombs”), have set benchmarks in deep-penetration munitions.

India’s indigenous version aims to go further. Rather than rely on large, expensive bomber aircraft for delivery, as the US does, India is designing its bunker buster to be missile-delivered, offering a more flexible and cost-effective platform. This adaptation could reshape strategic planning in the region.

Two new variants of the Agni-5 are reportedly under development. One will feature an airburst warhead for above-ground targets, while the other will be a deep-penetrating missile designed to burrow into hardened subterranean infrastructure—similar in concept to the GBU-57, but potentially with a larger payload.

Each warhead could weigh up to eight tons, which would make them among the most powerful conventional warheads globally.

Despite the reduced range of 2500 kilometres in the new variants compared to the original Agni-5, their destructive capacity and precision are expected to make them formidable assets in India’s strategic arsenal.

They will be particularly crucial for targeting command-and-control centres, missile silos, and critical military infrastructure in adversarial nations like Pakistan and China.

The missiles are expected to reach speeds between Mach 8 and Mach 20, classifying them as hypersonic weapons—comparable in velocity to the US bunker-buster systems but with significantly enhanced payloads.

Source : https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/after-us-iran-strikes-india-accelerates-bunker-buster-missile-project-2748410-2025-06-30

The Defence Ministry is set to clear military proposals worth over Rs 1 lakh crore, including QRSAM regiments, spy planes, sea mines, and upgrades for Su-30MKI jets, in its first acquisition meeting post-Operation Sindoor.

The Ministry of Defence is set to approve military proposals worth over Rs 1 lakh crore in a key meeting scheduled this week. This will be the first acquisition meeting since Operation Sindoor, aiming to enhance the capabilities of India’s armed forces.

According to defence officials who spoke to India Today, the proposals include a range of critical defence systems such as spy planes, sea mines, air defence missiles, and underwater autonomous vessels.

A major highlight of the meeting will be the likely clearance of three new regiments of the indigenous Quick Reaction Surface to Air Missile (QRSAM) systems for the Indian Army. This project is expected to strengthen India’s air defence along the Pakistan border. The QRSAM systems, developed by the DRDO, will be manufactured by Bharat Dynamics Limited and Bharat Electronics Limited.

The Indian Air Force is also expected to push forward a proposal to procure three spy planes under the Intelligence, Surveillance, Targeting and Reconnaissance (I-STAR) programme. “The Intelligence, Surveillance, Targeting and Reconnaissance aircraft would be critical for Air Force’s plans to take out ground targets in future,” sources said.

The aircraft will be sourced from an original equipment manufacturer and then modified by the DRDO’s Centre for Airborne Systems in collaboration with private partners.

In addition, the Indian Navy is set to propose the induction of DRDO-developed Pressure-Based Moored Mines, designed to target enemy submarines and surface vessels.

Source : https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/defence-ministry-clears-rupees-one-lakh-crore-defence-deals-operation-sindoor-su-30mki-fighter-jets-drdo-2748655-2025-07-01

An explosion and fire at a pharmaceutical factory in India’s southern state of Telangana killed at least 12 people and injured several others, authorities said Monday.

The fire department recovered the charred bodies of 10 workers in an industrial area about 50 kilometers (31 miles) from the state capital Hyderabad (31 miles), the state’s fire services director G.V. Narayana Rao told The Associated Press.

Two other workers succumbed to burns and were pronounced dead at a hospital, Rao said, adding that debris of the gutted pharmaceutical unit of Sigachi Industries was being removed to find out if any more workers were trapped. Nearly three dozen injured workers were admitted to hospitals. he said.

“It was an explosion in a spray dryer unit of the factory, which is used to process raw material into fine powder for making drugs,” Rao said.

India is home to some of the world’s top pharmaceutical companies, playing a pivotal role in the global supply of generic medicines and vaccines. The country’s robust manufacturing and cost-effective production have made it a hub for pharma giants.

Industrial accidents, particularly involving chemical reactors, aren’t uncommon in such factories, underlining the need for authorities to implement stringent safety protocols and regulatory oversight in a sector critical to public health.

Sigachi Industries Limited is an Indian company dealing with active pharmaceutical ingredients, intermediates and vitamin-mineral blends, according to the company’s website. It has five manufacturing facilities across India, and also subsidiaries in the U.S and the United Arab Emirates.

Source : https://apnews.com/article/india-pharmaceutical-factory-fire-telangana-ed032b2c921151585169837c342451d4

From Tuesday, changes in LPG cylinder prices are expected, particularly affecting the household budgets of middle-class families. While commercial LPG prices were reduced in June, domestic 14 kg cylinder rates have remained unchanged for a long time. Oil companies may also revise aviation turbine fuel (ATF) prices, which could impact air travel costs.

Effective 1 July 2025, India will see several rule changes affecting daily life, from a hike in LPG cylinder prices, credit card charges to increased railway ticket fares.

From Tuesday, changes in LPG cylinder prices are expected, particularly affecting the household budgets of middle-class families. While commercial LPG prices were reduced in June, domestic 14 kg cylinder rates have remained unchanged for a long time. Oil companies may also revise aviation turbine fuel (ATF) prices, which is likely to impact air travel costs.

Starting 1 July 2025, HDFC Bank credit card users will face higher charges. Utility bill payments via credit card may now incur extra fees. Besides, depositing more than ₹10,000 per month into digital wallets like Paytm, Mobikwik, FreeCharge, or Ola Money using an HDFC credit card will attract a 1% charge.

Effective 1 July 2025, ICICI Bank will charge ₹23 per ATM withdrawal beyond the five free transactions limit in metro cities and three in non-metro areas. Besides, new IMPS charges will apply: ₹2.50 for transfers up to ₹1,000, ₹5 for amounts up to ₹1 lakh, and ₹15 for transfers between ₹1–5 lakh.

The fourth change is related to Indian Railways. Railways will hike fares by 1 paisa/km for non-AC mail/express trains and 2 paisa/km for AC classes. Second-class tickets or Monthly Season Tickets (MSTs) for up to 500 km remains unchanged. For distances beyond that, half fare per km applies. Notably, only Aadhaar-verified users will be able to book Tatkal tickets on the IRCTC website or app.

Source : https://www.freepressjournal.in/india/from-lpg-prices-to-train-fares-5-key-rule-changes-across-india-starting-july-1-2025-check-details

Describing IVRI as a pioneering institution with 135 years of scientific legacy, the President applauded its achievements in animal health and vaccine development. She stressed that institutions like IVRI must take a lead role in biodiversity conservation, rural health, and innovation in veterinary science.

President Droupadi Murmu, addressing the 11th convocation of the Indian Veterinary Research Institute (IVRI) in Bareilly, called for a fundamental rethink of humanity’s relationship with animals and nature. Speaking to over 570 graduating veterinary students, the President said the COVID-19 pandemic underscored the grave risks of a consumption driven culture, warning that such an approach damages not only humans but also animals, biodiversity, and the environment.

Describing IVRI as a pioneering institution with 135 years of scientific legacy, the President applauded its achievements in animal health and vaccine development. She stressed that institutions like IVRI must take a lead role in biodiversity conservation, rural health, and innovation in veterinary science. “This is not just a professional degree,” she told students, “it is a pledge to stand with the voiceless, to empathise with life in all its forms.”

The President also highlighted the diminishing visibility of domestic animals in rural India, a shift she said is weakening agriculture and damaging ecological balance. She called for organizing Animal Health Melas and veterinary camps in villages, advocating a broader integration of veterinary care with rural public health.

Praising IVRI’s contributions to vaccination, disease control, and entrepreneurship, the President underscored the importance of affordable and indigenous technological solutions for animal healthcare. She urged students to become innovators and entrepreneurs, and to align their work with the One Health vision that links human, animal, and environmental well-being.

Addressing the graduates, President Murmu emphasised compassion and duty, reminding them that Indian culture sees the divine in all living beings. “If ever you feel lost,” she said, “remember the voiceless lives who depend

“IVRI’s 136-year journey a national inspiration, you link science with compassion”: CM

Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, speaking at the convocation, lauded IVRI as a symbol of India’s scientific and moral ethos. He said, “This institution has not just served animals, it has served society.” Highlighting IVRI’s role during the pandemic, he noted it conducted over two lakh COVID-19 tests and developed a crucial vaccine during the outbreak of lumpy skin disease in cattle. He praised scientists for standing with the voiceless and empowering farmers through innovations in livestock breeding.

Source : https://www.freepressjournal.in/india/president-droupadi-murmu-urges-rethink-on-human-animal-relationship-at-ivri-convocation-in-bareilly

A first-year law student was gangraped by an alumnus and two of her seniors last week, leading to the arrests of four people.

The South Calcutta Law College, which was marred by the controversy following the gangrape of a first-year student on campus, was shut indefinitely on Monday, officials said.

The classes for all students have been suspended for an indefinite period, they added.

“All BA LLB and LLM (General and Honours) classes of South Calcutta Law College will be suspended and the college premises will remain closed for all students until further notice as decided by the Governing Body,” a notification by the college read, news agency PTI reported.

The college administration’s move comes as anger against the rape incident continues to grow. The case has also gained political traction, with the ruling and the Opposition sides reacting to the case.

On June 25, a 24-year-old law student was gang-raped inside the guard’s room on her college campus. The main accused, Monojit Mishra, reportedly had two senior students stand outside to guard the room during the crime. Police have arrested Mishra, the two students, and the security guard in connection with the incident.

The Special Investigating Team (SIT), which is conducting the investigation in the case, has sealed the union room, the guard’s room, one washroom, and also the gates of the college as part of the probe. “These rooms were the place where she was tortured by the three accused,” the police said.

The officials said that the medical examination of the victim and the CCTV footage from the spot have supported her complaint.

They said that during her medical test, the doctors found signs of “forceful penetration” besides bite marks and nail scratches on her body.

Meanwhile, a crucial seven-hour-long CCTV recording showed the survivor being dragged into South Calcutta Law College from the gate by two of the accused.

“The footage supports the girl’s allegations. It clearly shows the movements of all three accused, the security guard, and the victim. We are still reviewing the video,” an investigating officer told PTI.

Source : https://www.news18.com/india/south-kolkata-law-college-shut-for-indefinite-period-classes-suspended-gangrape-case-9413265.html

Amit Shah chaired a ‘Manthan Baithak’ with cooperative ministers for the International Year of Cooperatives 2025, highlighting its role in aiding India’s poor, farmers, and women.

Union Home and Cooperation Affairs Minister Amit Shah on Monday chaired a ‘Manthan Baithak’ with cooperative ministers from all States and Union Territories to commemorate the International Year of Cooperatives 2025.

Earlier on June 20, Amit Shah addressed a national seminar organised in Mumbai on the occasion of the International Year of Cooperatives 2025.

Union Minister Shah said that while cooperatives can be an economic system for the entire world, for India, cooperation is a traditional philosophy of life. Living together, thinking together, working together, moving toward a common goal, and standing by each other in joy and sorrow are part of the soul of Indian philosophy.

He stated that the nearly 125-year-old cooperative movement has been a support for the country’s poor, farmers, rural citizens, and especially women, through many ups and downs.

Amit Shah said that under the cooperative movement, organisations like Amul, Indian Farmers Fertiliser Cooperative Limited (IFFCO), Krishak Bharati Cooperative Limited (KRIBHCO), and National Agricultural Cooperative Marketing Federation (NAFED) have created numerous success stories. Today, 36 lakh poor rural women are associated with Amul, who have invested no more than 100 rupees in capital, yet due to their hard work, Amul’s turnover is 80,000 crore rupees, with profits directly deposited into these women’s bank accounts.

Shah added that whether it is IFFCO or KRIBHCO, small farmers toil in their fields and supply their produce to the Government of India at Minimum Support Price (MSP), and the same grain is distributed to the poor as 5 kilos of free ration every month. The backbone of this entire scheme is NCCF and, in particular, NAFED.

The United Nations has declared the year 2025 as the ‘International Year of Cooperatives’, with a theme of “Cooperatives Build a Better World”.

Source : https://www.news18.com/india/amit-shah-chairs-manthan-baithak-in-delhi-for-2025-international-year-of-cooperatives-ws-l-9413284.html

Rithanya also accused her in-laws of mental torture and alleged she was physically assaulted by her husband Kavin

“I can’t live with him,” said Rithanya, a 27-year-old woman from Tamil Nadu, in one of seven voice notes that she had sent to her father before death by suicide.

The woman ended her life by consuming poison on June 28, alleging that she was subjected to severe physical and mental abuse from her husband and in-laws over dowry.

The case of harassment over dowry came to light after Rithanya’s body was found in her car on a road in Tiruppur district. She tied the knot with Kavin Kumar (27) in April this year.

After Rithanya’s death, Rithanya’s father, RG Annadurai (53), filed a police complaint that led to the arrest of Kavin Kumar (27) and his mother Chithradevi (47).

In her messages, Rithanya said she does not want to live with his husband. “He and his family are criminals. They planned to destroy my life,” she said in one recording, adding that she cannot marry again, The News Minute reported.

Rithanya also accused her in-laws of mental torture and alleged she was physically assaulted by Kavin. “I cannot bear the mental torture that they are giving me, nor can I be with him physically,” she said.

“I’m not lying to you, Dad. This is the truth,” she added.

How Much Dowry Rithanya’s Father Gave

Rithanya, a newlywed and daughter of Annadurai—a garment businessman and former political candidate—was married to 28-year-old Kavin Kumar on April 11, 2025, in a lavish ceremony. The wedding involved a hefty dowry that included 300 sovereigns of gold, a Volvo car worth Rs 70 lakh, and expenses amounting to Rs 2.5 crore. Additionally, there was an assurance of another 200 sovereigns of gold to be given later.

However, within just ten days of marriage, the situation turned grim. Rithanya began facing severe harassment from her husband Kavin Kumar, father-in-law Easwaramoorthy, and mother-in-law Chithradevi, all of whom pressured her over the promised remaining dowry. The abuse was not just verbal but included acts of cruelty, such as making her stand for hours over trivial matters.

On Saturday afternoon, after a visit to the Thalakkarai Lakshmi Narasimha Perumal Temple, Rithanya reportedly bought pesticide from Seyur. While on her way to the Mondipalayam Perumal Temple, she consumed the substance inside her car parked along the roadside. Passersby noticed her unconscious and informed the police. She was taken to the Avinashi Government Hospital, where doctors pronounced her dead on arrival.

Source : https://www.news18.com/india/cant-bear-torture-in-final-message-tamil-nadu-woman-called-in-laws-criminals-before-suicide-ws-l-9412822.html

Ratnakar Sahoo, additional commissioner of the BMC, was targeted during public hearing after a group of people entered his chamber and assaulted him.

A group of people allegedly assaulted a senior official of the Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC) on Monday during a grievance hearing. As per reports, Odisha police have arrested at least three people involved in the assault case.

Bhubaneswar DCP Jagmohan Meena said that an FIR has been registered for the case. The three arrested people have been identified as Jeevan Rout, Rashmi Mahapatra and Debashis Pradhan, according to news agency ANI.

Why was the official assaulted?

Ratnakar Sahoo, additional commissioner of the BMC, was targeted during public hearing on Monday after a group of people entered his chamber and grabbed him by the collar.

Videos of the attackers kicking Sahoo and hitting him on the head went viral on social media. As per initial reports, the official was attacked for allegedly misbehaving with BJP leader Jagnnath Pradhan or “Jag bhai.”

“Around five or six unknown youths forcefully entered into my chamber. I thought that they have come to lodge their grievances. A corporator was also with them, who asked me whether I had misbehaved with BJP leader Jagannath Pradhan. With this small interaction, the group of miscreants dragged me from the office and manhandled me,” Sahoo was quoted as saying by news agency PTI.

The BMC official further told reporters that the group also made an attempt to kidnap him by forcing him into a vehicle.

Assault triggers OAS mass leaves, protests

The assault triggered a wave of protests by staff members at the municipal corporation and corporators from the opposition Biju Janata Dal party.

Furthermore, the Odisha Administration Service Association (OAS) has declared a mass leave from Tuesday onwards as part of a protest against the assault.

“This is to formally inform you that the Odisha Administrative Service Association has unanimously resolved to proceed on a mass leave with effect from 1st July, 2025 in protest against the appalling and deplorable attack on the Additional Commissioner BMC, which occurred in broad daylight within official premises,” read the official letter issued by the association.

Opposition parties condemn assault

Meanwhile, opposition parties in the state – the BJD and Congress – have called for strict action against the attackers.

Condemning the attack, BJD leader and former chief minister Naveen Patnaik hit out at the current BJP government

“I am utterly shocked seeing this video. Today, Shri Ratnakar Sahoo, OAS Additional Commissioner, BMC, a senior officer of the rank of Additional Secretary was dragged from his office and brutally kicked and assaulted in front of a BJP Corporator, allegedly linked to a defeated BJP MLA Candidate,” Patnaik said, calling on Odisha CM to take action against the attacks and political leaders behind the assault.

BJD leaders and workers also carried out a protest in response to the assault, calling the incident a “complete failure of law and order.”

The Congress party also condemned the attack, blaming BJP’s “jungle raj” for the attack.

“In Bhubaneswar, Odisha, BJP leader Aparupa Raut, along with his goons, is beating up the Additional Commissioner of the Municipal Corporation. An attempt was also made to kidnap Additional Commissioner Ratnakar Sahu. Somehow, the Commissioner managed to save his life. This is the jungle raj of the BJP, where criminals are openly indulging in thuggery,” read the official statement on X from INC.

BMC Mayor Sulochana Das also condemned the incident. Stating that “nobody is safe”, the BMC mayor called for an attempted murder case to be filed against the attackers.

Source : https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/odisha-official-ratnakar-sahoo-video-bhubaneswar-dragged-chamber-kicked-head-3-held-assault-triggers-mass-leaves-101751330314721.html

“Commission of such offences is becoming a routine affair in this country because the courts are liberal and tolerant towards such acts of people with an anti national bent of mind,” says court

PRAYAGRAJ The Allahabad high court recently denied bail to a 62-year-old man accused of sharing a facebook post that stated “Pakistan zindabad”. The court said his anti-national conduct does not entitle him to seek protection of his right to liberty guaranteed under Article 21 of the Constitution of India.

Rejecting the bail of one Ansar Ahmad Siddique, Justice Siddharth said: “Commission of such offences is becoming a routine affair in this country because the courts are liberal and tolerant towards such acts of people with an anti national bent of mind. It is not a fit case for enlarging the applicant on bail at this stage.”

“Clearly the act of the applicant is disrespectful to the Constitution and its ideals and also his act amounts to challenging the sovereignty of India and adversely affecting unity and integrity to India by sharing anti-social and anti Indian post. The applicant is a senior citizen and his age shows that he is born in independent India. His irresponsible and anti national conduct does not entitle him to seek protection of his right to liberty guaranteed under Article 21 of the Constitution of India,” the court added.

“Clearly the act of the applicant is disrespectful to the Constitution and its ideals and also his act amounts to challenging the sovereignty of India and adversely affecting unity and integrity to India by sharing anti-social and anti Indian post. The applicant is a senior citizen and his age shows that he is born in independent India. His irresponsible and anti national conduct does not entitle him to seek protection of his right to liberty guaranteed under Article 21 of the Constitution of India,” the court added.

After hearing the contentions, the court in its order dated June 26 rejected the bail application mentioning that as per Article 51-A(a), it is the duty of every citizen of India to abide by the Constitution and respect its ideals and institutions, the national flag and the national anthem and as per sub clause (c) to uphold and protect the sovereignty, unity and integrity of India.

Source : https://www.hindustantimes.com/cities/lucknow-news/hc-denies-bail-to-man-accused-of-sharing-pakistan-zindabad-post-101751293860873.html

The uneven placement of the trees have created obstacles for drivers, who now must follow the zig-zag path to avoid them.

A Rs 100 crore road-widening project in Bihar’s Jehanabad district, about 50 km from Patna, is gaining attention—not for its development work, but because several large trees remain standing right in the middle of the newly expanded road.

Built to ease traffic flow, the 7.48-km stretch on the Patna–Gaya main road took an unusual turn as several trees were left standing, now posing safety concerns for the commuters.

During the road expansion, the local administration sought approval from the forest department to cut down several trees along the planned route.

However, the request was reportedly turned down, as the forest department required compensation for 14 hectares of forest land—something the administration couldn’t arrange.

With the issue unresolved, construction continued around the trees, which now stand irregularly in the middle of the road.

Their uneven placement has created obstacles for drivers, who now must follow the zig-zag path to avoid them.

Local residents say the flawed road design has already caused several accidents, with many expressing concern that the trees pose a serious safety risk, particularly for drivers travelling at night or at high speed, who could easily collide with them.

Source : https://www.news18.com/india/bihars-rs-100-crore-road-has-one-flaw-trees-still-stand-in-middle-9413052.html

The India-Pakistan trade relations soured after the Pulwama terror attack, following which India raised the import duty to 200 per cent on all goods imported from Pakistan.

Islamabad: India’s ban on ships carrying Pakistani goods from anchoring at its ports has increased freight charges and transit time, according to a media report.

Following the Pahalgam terror attack, India imposed a comprehensive ban, effective May 2, 2025, on the direct or indirect import or transit of goods originating in or exported from Pakistan.

Pakistani importers said the Indian ban has resulted in longer shipping times and higher freight charges, Dawnnewspaper reported on Sunday.

“Mother vessels are not coming to Pakistan due to this Indian action, which delays our imports by 30 to 50 days,” said Javed Bilwani, President of the Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

He said importers are now relying on feeder vessels, which raises costs.

Exporters also reported a spike in shipping and insurance costs following the Indian ban. However, they said the overall impact on exports remains minimal, the paper reported.

Source: https://www.deccanherald.com/india/indias-ban-on-ships-carrying-pakistani-cargo-hits-shipping-costs-delays-freight-report-3607596

Two labourers were killed and seven are missing after a landslide near Silai Bend on Yamunotri Highway due to heavy rain; rescue efforts are ongoing.

Two labourers were killed, and seven others feared dead after a landslide, triggered by a cloudburst, struck their campsite near Silai Bend on the Yamunotri National Highway in Uttarkashi in the early hours of Sunday, police said. The incident took place at around 1 am, approximately 5 km ahead of Paligad in Barkot tehsil on the national highway. Twenty nine people were present at the campsite when the landslide struck. Of these, 20 were moved to safety.

The bodies of Duje Lal (55), a resident of Pilibhit in Uttar Pradesh; Keval Bisht (43), a resident of Nepal were recovered.

Source: https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/two-killed-seven-feared-dead-after-landslide-triggered-by-cloudburst-hits-campsite-in-uttarkashi-101751222146606.html

The DMK cited the research findings by a university in England on Keeladi archaeological site and urged the BJP-led Union government to release the Keeladi research report

The Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) on Sunday cited the research findings by a university in England on Keeladi archaeological site and urged the BJP-led Union government to release the Keeladi research report.

UK-based Liverpool John Moores University studied the skulls excavated from Keeladi and reconstructed the facial features of ancient people who lived around 2,500 years ago. The images were generated last year after the Madurai Kamaraj University (MKU) sent them digital files related to skull samples from Kondagai, the burial site of Keeladi which is believed to have existed in 600BC.

On the findings, finance minister Thangam Thenarasu, who holds the archaeology portfolio, said that the UK-based university has reconstructed facial features of ancient people who lived around 2,500 years ago highlighting the antiquity of Tamil culture and civilization to the world. “Though the Union BJP government has deceitfully tried to suppress the history and heritage of Tamils, constructive scientific findings and historical evidence emerging from the Keezhadi excavations continue to defeat the Union government’s unjust denials,” he posted on X.

“The way of life detailed in Sangam literature now stands scientifically validated through the findings at Keeladi,” chief minister MK Stalin said on X.

Professor G Kumaresan, head of Ancient DNA Lab of MKU, said: “We received the data and images last year. Across the world, such facial recognition is done and we also did it to help us have a visual connection.” The facial reconstruction images using DNA analysis showed proximity of the humans in the region to South Asian origin.

The lab at MKU which primarily focuses on DNA analysis is working in four directions. “We are looking at genomic reconstruction by extracting DNA from bones and sequencing them to compare it with that of modern people,” Kumaresan told HT. “The challenge we face is that we get less DNA markers. We are getting only 4,000 markers per sample whereas you require 100,000 markers.” For the research, MKU has collaborated with David Reich Lab in Harvard University.

The MKU lab is also studying animal bones extracted from Keeladi to identify their species, how they came to be domesticated and how these connect to present day animals such as a bull, Kumaresan said. They are also studying agricultural practices from rice and millet extracted from the sites and organic molecules extracted from offering pots in burial sites to understand the ancient civilization’s food practices.

Minister Thenarasu’s statement came after the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) in May asked its officer K Amarnath Ramakrishna to rework his voluminous report of the first two excavations at Keeladi challenging the dating and classification of key discoveries.

Ramakrishna refused to and stood by his report, stating that by relying on AMS dating of 23 artefacts, a chronological sequence of Keeladi to be between the 8th century BCE to 3rd century CE has been established.

ASI transferred him on June 17 days after MK Stalin on June 13 said that the truth from the findings in Keeladi does not serve the script of the BJP and RSS and so they are dismissing the rigorously proven antiquity of Tamil culture. The chief minister has framed these archaeological pursuits as part of a broader ideological battle.

On June 11, Union minister of culture and tourism Gajendra Singh Shekhawat had alleged that the DMK government was refusing to cooperate with the central government on Keeladi research and politicising the findings.

After the first two excavations, Tamil Nadu state department of Archaeology took over from ASI at Keeladi in 2017 and digging entered its 11th phase this year.

In response to DMK’s comments, the BJP said that the DMK should not politicise archaeology. “ASI is one of the oldest institutions in the world. They have not rejected the Keeladi report but only asked for clarifications to prove to the world that we have an ancient civilisation,” BJP state leader Narayanan Thirupathy told HT.

Source: https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/tamil-nadu-government-urges-centre-to-release-keeladi-report-101751222980369.html

India’s defence attache to Indonesia made the comments at a June 10 event in response to claims that IAF had lost 5 fighter jets during Operation Sindoor

His hitherto unreported comments at the June 10 event were in response to claims made by an Indonesian aerospace expert that the Indian Air Force (IAF) lost five fighter jets — including three Rafales, one MiG-29 and a Sukhoi-30 — a tactical drone and Pakistan degraded two S-400 launchers during Operation Sindoor, India’s direct military response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror strike.

The accused, identified as Balaji Rathod, was arrested following the incident on the charge of murder, an official said.

A man addicted to alcohol allegedly strangled his four-year-old daughter to death on Sunday after she demanded money to buy chocolate in Latur district of Maharashtra, police said.

The accused, identified as Balaji Rathod, was arrested following the incident on the charge of murder, an official said.

“Rathod was addicted to alcohol, which caused frequent quarrels in his family. His wife had left him and started staying with her father. In the afternoon, his daughter Aarushi asked him for money to buy chocolate. In a fit of rage, he strangled her to death using a saree,” the official said.

Rathod’s wife Varsha has demanded capital punishment for her husband.

Source: https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/alcohol-addict-kills-daughter-4-for-demanding-money-to-buy-chocolate-in-maharashtra-cops-8793814

With several crucial Rath Yatra events approaching, the CM has reassigned experienced IAS and IPS officers to ensure tighter coordination and public safety.

Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Sunday ordered a major administrative shake-up following the stampede near Shree Gundicha Temple in Puri which claimed three lives and left around 50 people injured.

With several crucial Rath Yatra events approaching, the CM has reassigned experienced IAS and IPS officers to ensure tighter coordination and public safety.

In a decisive move, ADG (Police Modernisation) SK Priyadarshi has been placed in overall charge of police arrangements for the Rath Yatra and related rituals in addition to his existing responsibilities, an official said.

Further strengthening the top administrative structure, senior bureaucrat Saswata Mishra has been appointed as Principal Secretary to the CM, a post lying vacant since Nikunja Dhal proceeded on central deputation.

Mishra will also continue as Principal Secretary, Finance Department, and Chairman, IDCO.

The CM has also engaged former Puri Collector Arvind Agarwal as the overall in-charge of the Rath Yatra.

The administrative action came swiftly after the stampede sparked nationwide outrage.

Within hours, Puri Collector Siddharth Sekhar Swain and Puri SP Vinit Agarwal were removed from their posts.

Additionally, DCP Vishnu Pati and Commandant Ajay Padhi have been suspended from service.

DIG STF Pinak Mishra has been appointed as the new Puri SP. Despite his promotion to DIG rank, Mishra has been directed to function as SP during the Yatra, citing the critical nature of the role. Sources confirmed he assumed charge within hours of the transfer order.

To ensure full transparency, Majhi has ordered an administrative inquiry into the incident, to be conducted by Development Commissioner Anu Garg, a senior officer known for her firm administrative approach.

The inquiry will aim to determine lapses and recommend corrective measures.

Source: https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/puri-stampede-odisha-chief-minister-orders-administrative-overhaul-8793491

Indian Railways is overhauling its Passenger Reservation System to enhance convenience, including earlier chart preparation, increased booking capacity, and user verification for Tatkal tickets.

The Indian Railways is revamping its Passenger Reservation System (PRS) in a bid to make the ticket booking process convenient. Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw recently reviewed the progress of these reforms and emphasised that the ticketing system must be smart, transparent, accessible, and efficient, with a strong focus on passenger convenience.

One of the major changes proposed is the advancement of reservation chart preparation. The Railway Minister has approved this proposal and directed phased implementation to ensure a smooth transition.

At present, charts are prepared four hours before the train’s departure, often creating uncertainty for passengers, especially those travelling from nearby areas. To address this, the Railway Board has proposed preparing the charts eight hours in advance.

The Railways are also working on upgrading the PRS to a modern, agile, and scalable system. The project, being carried out by the Centre for Railway Information Systems (CRIS), is set to be completed by December 2025.

The upgraded system will be capable of handling 5 times the current load, allowing over 1.5 lakh ticket bookings per minute, up from the current 32,000. The ticket enquiry capacity will also rise sharply from 4 lakh to 40 lakh queries per minute.

The new PRS is expected to feature a user-friendly, multilingual interface with options to select preferred seats and view a fare calendar. It will also integrate special facilities for Divyangjan, students, and patients.

Source: https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/indian-railways-ticket-booking-system-upgrade-2748107-2025-06-30

The US has reportedly been pushing hard for tariff concessions and opening up the Indian markets for dairy and agricultural items like genetically modified crops, apples and nuts.

New Delhi: Bilateral trade agreement between India and the US seems unlikely to be signed by the July 8 deadline, which marks the end of President Donald Trump’s 90-day suspension of the so-called “liberation day” tariffs, creating renewed uncertainty for exporters.

According to sources, agricultural goods remain the key sticky issue. The US has been pushing hard for tariff concessions and opening up the Indian markets for dairy and agricultural items like genetically modified crops, apples and nuts.

So far, India has not budged on these issues. Concession on agricultural items is not part of any of the trade deals signed by India so far.

“For us, the priority is protecting India’s interest,” said a government source.

An Indian delegation led by special secretary in the Department of Commerce and India’s chief negotiator Rajesh Agrawal is in the US to take forward the negotiations.

This comes amid claims by Trump that the US may have a “very big” trade deal.

“Everybody wants to make a deal and have a part of it. Remember a few months ago, the press was saying, ‘You really have anybody of any interest? Well, we just signed with China yesterday. We are having some great deals. We have one coming up, maybe with India. Very big one,” Trump said at the White House on Thursday.

According to analysts, India and the US may opt for a “mini-deal” in line with the US-UK deal announced in May. The mini-deal, if concluded, is likely to focus on tariff reductions and strategic commitments, leaving broader free trade agreement (FTA) issues—including services trade, intellectual property rights and digital regulations—for a future negotiation.

Under the mini-deal, India may agree to lower tariffs on a wide range of industrial goods, including automobiles and petrochemical products.

However, New Delhi is unlikely to budge on the farm sector, which is politically and economically sensitive, affecting over 70 crore people in India’s rural economy.

Any substantial agreement on the farm sector looks unlikely unless there is political push from the top level of the two countries. However, India may offer limited market access through tariff reductions and tariff-rate quotas (TRQs) on select US products such as ethanol, almonds, walnuts, apples, raisins, avocados, olive oil, spirits and wine.

“Any trade deal with the US must not be politically driven or one-sided, it must protect our farmers, our digital ecosystem, and our sovereign regulatory space,” said Ajay Srivastava, founder, Global Trade Research Initiative (GTRI).

EEPC India Chairman Pankaj Chadha said the India-US trade deal should include the sectoral tariffs like steel, aluminium and auto parts, as it is crucial for engineering goods exports, which account for nearly one-fourth of India’s total merchandise exports.

Source: https://www.deccanherald.com/business/agri-concessions-may-delay-india-us-trade-deal-as-july-8-deadline-looms-3608161

Around 3,000 fishermen had ventured out to sea in 370 boats from Rameswaram. While returning, several of them claimed they were surrounded by Sri Lankan Navy patrol boats near the North Mannar region.

Eight Indian fishermen from Rameswaram were arrested by the Sri Lankan Navy for crossing the international maritime boundary on Sunday. One mechanised boat was also seized in the operation.

Around 3,000 fishermen had ventured out to sea in 370 boats from Rameswaram. While returning, several of them claimed they were surrounded by Sri Lankan Navy patrol boats near the North Mannar region.

Teams of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), and police have left for the under-construction site.

Around nine workers of Nepali origin have gone missing in Uttarakhand’s Uttarkashi district after a cloudburst damaged an under-construction hotel site in the area.

Around 28 workers were engaged in road construction work at the site and lived there by putting up tents. It is feared that nine of them have swept away by heavy rain following the cloudburst.

The incident took place at around 2 am last night and a rescue operation is underway to find those missing.

According to news agency PTI, the cloudburst took place near Paligad-Silai Band in Tehsil Barkot. The highway is closed at many places, including Silai bend, since the cloudburst.

Teams of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), and police are at the site and are engaged in in relief and rescue operations.

Reacting to the cloudburst, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami said in a post on X, “I am in constant contact with the concerned authorities regarding this matter. I pray to God for everyone’s safety.”

The water level in Yamuna has increased following heavy rain and the Kupda Kunshala Trikhili motor bridge in Syanachatti is also in danger, reported PTI.

“This incident happened near Silai band in Barkot. A hotel was under construction where around 28 workers were working. Eight or nine of them are missing. Rescue operation is underway,” said Uttarakhand Disaster Management Secretary Vinod Kumar Suman.

Source: https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/cloudburst-uttarakhand-baligarh-uttarkashi-under-construction-hotel-site-workers-missing-rescue-ops-101751162658033.html

The traffic jam, which began on Thursday evening, continued till late on Friday night with over 4000 vehicles stuck on the stretch.

At least three people were killed in 30 hours as a massive traffic snarl on the Indore-Dewas highway stretched on for nearly eight kilometres between Thursday and Friday, with the Indore administration springing into action on Saturday.

The traffic jam, which began on Thursday evening, continued till late on Friday night with over 4000 vehicles stuck on the stretch, causing chaos and raising serious questions about road and traffic management.

According to preliminary information, the primary cause of the bottleneck was ongoing highway construction work and severe water-logging due to heavy rainfall. Traffic was diverted to a narrow service lane, which led to extreme congestion and stranded vehicles.

The first death was reported on a Thursday evening when Sandeep Patel (32), a resident of Gari Pipalya village, died of a heart attack on the way to the hospital.

“Sandeep complained of chest pain. We were taking him to the hospital in Mangalia. The car stranded in the traffic and his condition deteriorated. He was declared brought dead,” Sandeep’s uncle, Satish Patel, said.

The two other deaths were reported on Friday.

Kamal Panchal (62), a farmer and resident of Bijalpur, was on his way to a relative’s house with his family.

“We were stuck in the jam for one and a half hours. During this time my father got nervous, he complained of heaviness and fainted in the car. He was taken to a private hospital in Dewas, where doctors declared him dead,” his son, Vijay Panchal, said. The third fatality was Balram Patel (55), a cancer patient from Shujalpur, who was being taken to Indore.

At a high-level meeting held on Friday, Indore collector Asheesh Singh directed officials from NHAI, IMC, Traffic Police, and PWD to ensure uninterrupted traffic movement. “There should be immediate and visible action at jam-prone points. Coordination between departments is non-negotiable,” he told officials.

Source: https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/three-dead-after-being-stuck-in-8-km-traffic-jam-on-mp-highway-101751160872564.html

Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended his best wishes to Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla and inquired about his well-being in space.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, who is aboard the International Space Station as part of the Axiom-4 (Ax-4) mission, engaged in a deep conversation via video conferencing, covering a range of topics.

Shubhanshu Shukla, along with three fellow astronauts, lifted off for the International Space Station on June 25 aboard SpaceX’s Dragon spacecraft, launching from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center as part of the Axiom-4 mission.

At first, the Prime Minister extended his best wishes to the Group Captain and inquired about his well-being in space. “I congratulate you on hoisting India’s flag in space. First of all, tell me — is everything well there? Are you in good health?” asked PM Modi.

“Yes, Prime Minister,” Shukla replied.

At least 16 Pakistani soldiers were killed after a suicide bomber rammed an explosive-laden vehicle into a military convoy on Thursday.

The Ministry of External Affairs on Sunday rejected Pakistan Army’s accusations over India’s involvement in a suicide attack in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa on Saturday.

“We have seen an official statement by the Pakistan Army seeking to blame India for the attack in Waziristan on 28 June. We reject this statement with the contempt it deserves,” it said in an official statement.

At least 16 Pakistani soldiers were killed after a suicide bomber rammed an explosive-laden vehicle into a military convoy, while two dozen, including army personnel and civilians, were injured. The attack was claimed by the suicide bomber wing of the Hafiz Gul Bahadur armed group, a faction of the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP).

Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif condemned the attack and termed it a “cowardly act”, a statement from his office said. Pakistan’s Army Chief Asim Munir said any attempt to undermine the internal stability of the country will be met with swift retribution, while the military claimed, without evidence, that the attack was executed by an Indian proxy.

The explosion also caused the roofs of two houses to collapse, injuring six children, according to a police officer in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The lawless province next to neighbouring Afghanistan has seen an increase in violent attacks recently.

In mid-March, the TTP announced a “spring campaign” against security forces, threatening “ambushes, targeted attacks, suicide attacks and strikes”. The TTP has since claimed responsibility for around 100 attacks in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

Around 290 people, mostly security officials, have been killed in attacks since the start of the year by armed groups fighting the government in both Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan, according to an AFP tally.

Source: https://www.news18.com/india/india-rejects-pakistan-armys-accusations-on-suicide-attack-in-khyber-pakhtunkhwa-ws-l-9410279.html

Rath Yatra Stampede: A heavy rush near the entry gate of Gundicha Temple during Rath Yatra in Puri, Odisha, led to the death of three persons.

At least three people died in a stampede near Sri Gundicha Temple in Puri, Odisha, during Lord Jagannath Rath Yatra. Aroumnd 50 others were injured in the incident that took place early morning at 4:20 am, said an official. Of these injured, six are in critical condition, an hospital official added.
A sudden rush for entry into the temple led to chaos. As per the information, there was already overcrowding and then a truck entered the crowd, causing panic. Eyewitnesses report inadequate police presence.
Odisha Law Minister Prithiviraj Harichandan confirmed three deaths and injuries to news agency ANI. “It is an unfortunate incident. We are taking note of that. I spoke with the CM this morning. We are taking stringent action. DGP has been sent to the spot. Three people have passed away because of suffocation in the huge gathering,” he told ANI on phone.

The flight landed “safely” back in Mumbai, and an aircraft change was initiated, Air India said without giving specific details.

A Chennai-bound Air India flight was forced to return to Mumbai on Saturday due to a “burning smell” in the cabin. The aircraft, however, landed back safely, Air India said in a statement.
“Air India flight AI 639, operating from Mumbai to Chennai, on Friday, June 27, made a precautionary air-return to Mumbai due to a burning smell in the cabin,” the airline said in a statement.
The flight landed “safely” back in Mumbai, and an aircraft change was initiated, Air India said without giving specific details.

Source: https://www.timesnownews.com/india/chennai-bound-air-india-flight-returns-mid-air-to-mumbai-after-burning-smell-in-cabin-article-152174471

Saquib Abdul Nachan, a significant figure in the ISIS Delhi-Padgha module, passed away while receiving treatment at Safdarjung Hospital after being transferred from Tihar Jail due to a medical emergency.

Saquib Abdul Nachan, a key accused in the ISIS Delhi-Padgha module case, died on Saturday while undergoing treatment at Safdarjung Hospital, sources told Times Now. He had been shifted from Tihar Jail to the hospital a week ago following a medical emergency.
Nachan was arrested by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) in 2023 for his alleged involvement in a large-scale ISIS conspiracy in India. According to the NIA, the module was actively engaged in radicalising youth, fundraising for the banned terror outfit, and fabricating explosives and IEDs for planned attacks.
The agency had earlier described Nachan as a “habitual offender in several past terror cases” and a self-styled Amir-e-Hind (leader of ISIS in India). It was revealed that the accused in the case had pledged allegiance (bayath) to Nachan and were coordinating closely with him.

In June last year, the NIA said it had seized explosive-making materials, digital evidence, and ISIS propaganda literature, including magazines such as Voice of Hind, Rumiyah, Khilafat, and Dabiq, during its investigation.
A chargesheet filed by the NIA in 2024 named 17 individuals, including Nachan, with most of the accused hailing from Uttar Pradesh and Maharashtra. The group was allegedly planning attacks aimed at disrupting India’s secular and democratic fabric, the agency had said.

Source: https://www.timesnownews.com/india/isis-india-head-saquib-nachan-dies-at-delhis-safdarjung-hospital-article-152172469

The party’s and Moitra’s responses come amid mounting public outrage over the incident and growing calls for accountability and justice for the victim.

The Trinamool Congress (TMC) has issued a strong statement disassociating itself from controversial remarks made by party MP Kalyan Banerjee and MLA Madan Mitra regarding the horrific rape incident at South Kolkata Law College. The party clarified that the statements were made in the leaders’ personal capacities and do not reflect the TMC’s stance.

TMC MP Mahua Moitra responded strongly, slamming the remarks. In a tweet, she said, “Misogyny in India cuts across party lines. What differentiates @AITCofficial is that we condemn these disgusting comments no matter who makes them.”

The party’s and Moitra’s responses come amid mounting public outrage over the incident and growing calls for accountability and justice for the victim.

“The remarks made by MP Kalyan Banerjee and MLA Madan Mitra concerning the heinous crime at South Calcutta Law College were made in their personal capacities. The party unequivocally disassociates itself from their statements and strongly condemns the same. These views do not reflect the position of the party in any manner whatsoever,” the party stated on X (formerly Twitter).

Reaffirming its position, TMC added, “Our stance remains resolute; we have zero tolerance for crimes against women and demand the strictest possible punishment for all those involved in this heinous crime.”

According to the woman, one night, the monk entered her room and forcibly raped her. She claims the assaults occurred at least 12 times over six months between January and June 2013.

A woman in West Bengal has accused Padma Shri awardee monk Kartik Maharaj, also known as Swami Pradiptananda, of raping her multiple times in 2013 at his ashram under the pretext of offering her a teaching position at a school. Kartik Maharaj has refuted the allegations, claiming they are a conspiracy to “malign his name and fame.” He stated that his legal team would address the matter in court.

The woman alleges that the monk, associated with the Bharat Sevashram Sangha, took her to an ashram in Murshidabad, promising her a teaching job at a school in the ashram premises. She was also provided accommodation at the ashram.

According to the woman, one night, the monk entered her room and forcibly raped her. She claims the assaults occurred at least 12 times over six months between January and June 2013.

She stated that she remained silent about the incidents for years due to fear and helplessness. The monk allegedly threatened to take his own life if she reported the matter to the police.

The survivor further claims that after becoming pregnant in 2013, the accused, along with some school staff, took her to a private nursing facility in Berhampore and forced her to undergo an abortion.

A complaint has been registered, and a case has been filed against Kartik Maharaj under relevant legal sections. A detailed investigation is currently underway.

Reportedly, Maharaj has close ties with the BJP. Earlier, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee had accused him of supporting the BJP during elections and working against the Trinamool Congress.

In response, Maharaj sent a legal notice in 2024, demanding an unconditional apology from Banerjee for “tarnishing” the reputation of his ashram.

Source: https://www.freepressjournal.in/india/padma-awardee-monk-swami-pradiptananda-accused-of-raping-woman-12-times-in-6-months-forcing-abortion

According to the medical report’s findings, there was an abrasion mark around the woman’s neck, and a few marks on her chest. The report added that there were no lacerations (cuts) on her body.

A day after the gang-rape case of a Kolkata law student came to light, her medical report has been accessed, revealing signs of brutality and forcible sexual intercourse. The medical examination of the woman was conducted on Friday.

According to the findings of the medical examination, there was an abrasion mark around the woman’s neck, and a few marks on her breasts. The report further added that there were no lacerations (cuts) on her body.

It also said that, given the nature of the injury marks found on her body, the possibility of a sexual assault cannot be ruled out either.

This came a day after the matter was reported by a 24-year-old South Calcutta Law College student, alleging that she was gang-raped.

Earlier, a medical examination confirmed the survivor’s allegations and there was evidence of forceful penetration, bite marks and nail scratches on her body, according to a senior Kolkata Police official.

Three men were arrested in connection with the case that invited angry reactions from all corners. The case was reported more than 10 months after a similar crime at the RG Kar Medical College and Hospital in Kolkata led to city and nationwide protests.

The student alleged that she was gang-raped on June 25 after she rejected a marriage proposal from the main accused, 31-year-old Monojit Mishra, who is a former student and current general secretary of the Trinamool Congress Chhatra Parishad (TMCP). Two others — also students at the college — stood by and watched the crime unfold.

The fourth person, a college security guard, was also arrested in connection with the case for allegedly turning a blind eye to the assault and deliberately not alerting the authorities or the police.

The incident has become a major political flashpoint between the ruling Trinamool Congress and the opposition BJP in Bengal, owing to the alleged involvement of a cadre from Mamata Banerjee’s party.

While Trinamool assured of justice in a long statement on X, in which the ruling party condemned the incident, the BJP clapped back by sharing a series of pictures of Mishra with multiple Trinamool leaders, including Abhishek Banerjee, who is an MP and the nephew of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee.

Source: https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/kolkata-gang-rape-survivor-medical-report-abrasion-mark-on-neck-no-laceration-woman-body-2747733-2025-06-28

The footage, which also captured moments leading up to the June 25 incident, shows the first-year law student being forced into the guard’s room.

CCTV footage obtained from South Calcutta Law College has confirmed the allegations made by the student in her rape complaint, police said.

The footage, which also captured moments leading up to the June 25 incident, shows the first-year law student being forced into the guard’s room.

“The CCTV footage confirms the girl’s allegations. It shows the movements of the three accused, the security guard, and the victim. We are currently examining the footage,” the police told news agency PTI on Saturday.

Police have also collected evidence like strands of hair, hockey stick from the students’ union room, the washroom and the guard’s room – further backing the survivor’s complaint.

Seized items include strands of hair, several bottles containing unknown liquids, and a hockey stick.

“There are clear signs of a struggle in all three rooms. The samples have been sent for forensic examination,” the officer further told PTI.

The student, in her complaint, had alleged that the accused had threatened her with a hockey stick.

At least three people, including a Trinamool Congress student leader, have been arrested in connection with the case so far.

A day later, the incident made headlines, her medical report revealed signs of brutality and forcible sexual intercourse. The medical examination was conducted on Friday. This incident comes barely ten months after the brutal rape and murder of a medical student at RG Kar Medical College in Kolkata shocked the nation.

Source: https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/kolkata-law-college-rape-horror-student-forced-guard-room-cctv-confirms-rape-allegation-trinamool-congress-student-leader-2747799-2025-06-29

Tamil Nadu Minister Anbil Mahesh claimed 90,000 students in Karnataka failed due to language imposition. He also slammed the Centre for withholding education funds from states like Tamil Nadu and Kerala.

Tamil Nadu Education Minister Anbil Mahesh Poyyamozhi on Friday said that over 90,000 students in Karnataka had failed their board exams due to the “imposition of a language.” He made the remark while addressing students at a school competition, using the platform to criticise the Union government over its language policy and education funding.

The minister said that language learning should be a choice for students. “A third language should be an option, not a compulsion,” he said, highlighting the need for flexibility in education policies.

Taking a direct swipe at the Centre, Anbil Mahesh accused the Union government of withholding vital education funds from high-performing states like Tamil Nadu and Kerala. “The Centre is threatening states by choking education funds. But Chief Minister Stalin has stepped in and assured that the state will bear the full cost,” he added.

Earlier in the day, DMK MP Kanimozhi responded to Union Home Minister Amit Shah’s assertion that Hindi is not an enemy of any language by asserting the same for Tamil, urging North Indians to learn South Indian languages.

“If Hindi is not the enemy of any language, then Tamil is also not the enemy of any language. Let them learn Tamil. Let the people of North India learn at least one South Indian language. That is true national integration,” she said.

Source: https://www.indiatoday.in/india/south/story/students-fail-karnataka-language-imposition-dmk-minister-anbil-mahesh-tamil-nadu-2747790-2025-06-29

The details on which poison was used and the amount used and other information will be available after the post mortem report is available, he said.

Chief Conservator of Forest (Chamarajanagar Circle, Karnataka) T Hiralal said that the death of a tigress and its four cubs were due to poisoning.

Speaking to media persons after the post mortem, Hiralal said that the post mortem of the tigers was completed on Friday. The viscera and samples of the tigers have been sent to the lab for testing. The samples of the cow, which was left half consumed, has also been sent for test, he said.

The details on which poison was used and the amount used and other information will be available after the post mortem report is available, he said.

The adult tigress was around 10 years and the cubs were around eight to 10 months old. They might have died around three days ago, he added.

Investigation is being conducted to figure out if the cow’s carcass was intentionally laced with poison and kept inside the forest. Search is on to find the owner of the cow. Besides, a probe will also be conducted on whether the forest watchers and guards were not paid properly and if there were any lapses in the patrolling system, the CCF said.

A few residents of Koppa village have been taken into custody for inquiry, based on the preliminary information.

Source : https://www.deccanherald.com/india/karnataka/death-of-five-tigers-in-karnataka-due-to-poisoning-ccf-3605638

Election Commission said that ample digital security measures have been put in place to ensure that app is “tamper-proof”. It also explained how e-voting cannot be tampered with.

Ahead of the Assembly elections, Bihar is set to become the first state in the country to allow voting with a mobile phone, according to State Election Commissioner Deepak Prasad on Friday.

His remarks came on the eve of the voting for the six municipal councils across three districts – Patna, Rohtas, and East Champaran – slated for Saturday. However, it is not yet clear if the voting will take place in a similar manner in the upcoming Assembly Elections as well.

Who Can Cast e-Vote In Bihar?

The Election Commissioner said that the vote-by-mobile facility will be available to those who are unable to go to the polling booth to cast their votes. He said that the voters must have an app installed on their phone to be able to cast vote online.

The official said that this facility can be availed by senior citizens, differently abled people, pregnant women and migrant voters.

The Election Commission had also run an awareness campaign in this regard from June 10 to 22.

The voters must download the e-SECBHR mobile application on their phone and link it to the phone number that they used to register their name on the electoral roll. Reports suggest that this app is currently compatible only with Android phones.

Prasad said the app was created by the Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC), and another app was made by the Bihar State Election Commission.

How Is e-Voting Tamper-Proof? EC Explains
In order to keep the voting process fair and transparent, only two registered voters are allowed to log in using one mobile number. Each vote will be checked and verified using the voter’s ID.

The voters who do not own a mobile phone can also cast an e-vote on the Bihar Election Commission’s website.

Prasad said that around 10,000 voters had already registered for the e-voting system, and nearly 50,000 more are expected to vote online instead of going to polling booths.

When asked how the voting process would remain safe and fair, he outlined strong digital security measures that have been put in place. “The system will include features like blockchain technology, face matching, and scanning to make sure it can’t be tampered with,” he explained.

Source : https://www.news18.com/india/bihar-first-state-to-allow-voting-via-mobile-app-ec-explains-how-its-tamper-proof-9408451.html

The CBI has filed charge sheets against two individuals in separate cases of murders allegedly committed by two Indian citizens in the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain, officials on Friday said.

In one case on the request from the UAE, the CBI has filed a charge sheet against Inder Jit Singh, who had allegedly killed another Indian national Rama Lingam Natesan in Abu Dhabi, UAE, in 2008.

It is alleged that Singh used to purchase international SIM cards from Natesan on credit basis and gradually the debts rose to 300 AUD.

“Due to this, a dispute broke out between them. When the deceased Rama Lingam Natesan asked employer of Inder Jit Singh to deduct his outstanding dues from his salary, Inder Jit Singh hatched a plan to kill Rama Lingam Natesan,” a CBI Spokesperson said in a statement.

Singh allegedly assaulted Natesan with a sharp knife causing grievous injuries to him, to which he later succumbed, the statement said.

In the second case, the CBI has filed a charge sheet against Subhash Chander Mahla, who worked as a driver, for the alleged murder of his employer in Bahrain.

He was allegedly aggrieved by the misbehaviour of his employer and decided to eliminate him.

“On January 31, 2011, Subhash Chander Mahla, finding his employer alone, assaulted him with a solid traumatizing tool causing grievous injuries on his body, of which he later died,” the agency said.

It said the agency launched local prosecution, finalised investigations and filed charge sheets under IPC Section 302 and others on the basis of requests from the UAE and Kingdom of Bahrain for crimes committed abroad by Indian nationals.

“The CBI closely coordinated with the Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India, to obtain evidence admissible as per Indian Law from authorities of UAE and Bahrain and successfully launched prosecution against the accused persons Inder Jit Singh and Subhash Chander Mahla,” the agency said.

Source : https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/cbi-files-charge-sheets-against-two-indian-nationals-for-murder-in-uae-bahrain-101751048302417.htm

IMD predicts Delhi’s monsoon arrival within days, as the capital remains dry while nearby regions receive abundant rainfall.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Friday predicted the monsoon would reach Delhi within days—the latest in a series of forecasts it has repeatedly revised in recent weeks as the national capital remains among the last holdouts awaiting seasonal rains that have blanketed the entire country except for a narrow sliver in the northwest.

IMD had forecast the monsoon would reach Delhi by June 24, ahead of its normal arrival date of June 27. But the southwest monsoon winds have eluded the capital so far.(HT Photo/Raj K Raj)
IMD had forecast the monsoon would reach Delhi by June 24, ahead of its normal arrival date of June 27. But the southwest monsoon winds have eluded the capital so far.(HT Photo/Raj K Raj)
While “conditions are becoming favourable for further advance of southwest monsoon over remaining parts of the country during next 2-3 days,” according to the IMD, the capital’s isolation in this meteorological map stands in contrast to the rest of India, where the southwest monsoon has largely kept pace with or exceeded early predictions made at the beginning of June.

The region left uncovered this year—a narrow sliver from the westernmost parts of Uttar Pradesh and Delhi to the western extreme of Rajasthan—represents the smallest area left out by the monsoon since 1961, when the earliest available progress maps began, according to analysis of historical data.

IMD had forecast the monsoon would reach Delhi by June 24, ahead of its normal arrival date of June 27. Since then, meteorologists have issued daily forecasts pushing back the onset, a pattern now attributed to specific upper-level atmospheric circulation patterns that continue to impede rainfall over the Delhi region while neighbouring areas receive abundant rain.

“We can say monsoon will reach Delhi anytime in the next couple of days,” an IMD scientist said. The scientist explained that the monsoon trough—currently positioned just south of Delhi—needs to shift merely a few kilometres northward to trigger rainfall conditions.

“Anti-cyclonic winds over the region are inhibiting the flow of monsoon winds, but active conditions will begin once the trough moves northward,” the scientist said.

Anti-cyclonic winds refer to air currents that rotate clockwise in the northern hemisphere, creating high-pressure zones that suppress rainfall. Typically, during this time of year, cyclonic (counter-clockwise) circulation patterns dominate, drawing moisture inland from the Bay of Bengal and Arabian Sea to fuel monsoon rains. These wind patterns also create low pressure, causing moisture-laden winds to rise up, where water droplets condense into dense rain clouds.

Never since 1961, when the earliest available monsoon progress maps began, has the seasonal rains left out as narrow and small a region as this year—a sliver running from the westernmost parts of Uttar Pradesh and Delhi to the western extreme of Rajasthan.

While it’s common for small regions over Rajasthan, Punjab, and Haryana to be the last areas covered by the monsoon, this year’s pattern is unprecedented in its acute angle and minimal geographic scope.

In fact, India as a whole has received 9% above-normal rainfall this June. Central India has recorded 22% excess, and northwest India as a region has seen 39% more rain than usual.

Delhi, though, remains dry and hot — caught between weather systems. Humidity levels have risen due to the moisture around the capital, but cloud cover and rainfall remain erratic and minimal.

The IMD’s extended-range forecast indicates that the monsoon trough is expected to settle around its normal position between July 3 and 10. This could bring normal to above-normal rainfall to northwest India, including Delhi, Haryana, Punjab, and the Western Himalayas.

Source : https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/delhi-monsoon-imd-india-weather-progress-rajasthan-haryana-india-met-dept-rains-101751042517064.html

The woman was rescued by authorities after she drove her car onto a railway track in an alleged attempt to end her life, according to Vikarabad police.

A 34-year-old woman from Lucknow was rescued by authorities after she drove her car onto a railway track near Nagulapally Railway Station in an alleged attempt to end her life, Vikarabad police said.

The woman identified as Vomika Soni was later apprehended and has been admitted to a hospital.

As per the statement issued by police, the incident occurred on June 26, 2025. At around 4:00 am, Soni, currently staying at a private hotel accommodation in Goulidoddi, Gachibowli, visited Narsingi Police Station, where she left her mobile phone, handbag, and pet Labrador dog. Later, at 7:04 a.m., she reached LC Gate No. 22, Kondakall, and drove her vehicle onto the railway track near Nagulapally Railway Station with the alleged intention of committing suicide by train collision.

The gateman on duty noticed the car on the track and immediately alerted railway control and station masters. Soni continued to drive along the track for approximately seven kilometres before personnel from the Government Railway Police (GRP) and Railway Protection Force (RPF), with support from the local police, intercepted and rescued her, the statement mentioned.

As per the statement, she was first taken to the Chevella Government Hospital for initial medical attention and later referred to the Osmania Hospital in Hyderabad. She has since been shifted to Yerragadda Mental Hospital for further treatment. Her parents have been informed.

Source : https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/telangana-woman-apprehended-for-driving-car-on-railway-track-near-nagulapally-station-101751075380369.html

The Kolkata gangrape victim stated she was preparing to leave when the main accused instructed the other two individuals to step “outside and lock the door.”

Kolkata Police on Friday arrested three men over the gangrape of a law student inside South Calcutta Law College in the city’s Kasba area. Among the accused, two are current students of the institution, while the third is a former student. The survivor lodged a First Information Report (FIR) with the police on June 26, a day after the incident.

The woman, a first-year student, had gone to the campus around 4 PM for some work when the accused allegedly asked her to stay back.

The medical examination has corroborated her allegation of gangrape, with officials confirming the presence of injuries consistent with sexual assault. According to the report, doctors found evidence of “forceful penetration, bite marks and nail scratches” on her body.

The accused—Monojit Mishra (31), a college staffer, and students Zaib Ahmed (19) and Pramit Mukherjee (20)— were produced before the additional chief judicial magistrate’s court in Alipore and has been sent to police custody till July 1.

‘He gave a proposal of marriage’

According to the FIR accessed by Hindustan Times, the survivor stated that everything appeared normal around 6:10 PM. As others were preparing to leave, one of the accused asked her to stay a little longer.

“He called me outside the room (Union room) and told me that from the very first day he likes me. After his girlfriend he is in love with someone and that is me and he gave a proposal for marriage,” the woman alleged in her complaint.

According to the FIR, the woman stated that she had packed her bag and was preparing to leave when the main accused instructed the other two individuals to step “outside and lock the door.”

“It was within fraction of second…He took me near the washroom and tried to force me with the intention of rousing sex,” the FIR read.

‘I touched his feet but he didn’t let go’

In her FIR, the survivor alleged that she repeatedly pleaded with the main accused to let her go, but he ignored her requests.

“I touched his feet but he did not let me go, but he did not listen,” she said in her statement.

“He asked the other two to take me inside the guard’s room and make the guard sit outside. They did so,” she said in the written complaint.

‘Threatened to kill boyfriend, arrest parents’

According to the FIR, she was repeatedly threatened and assaulted by the main accused while the two other men stood by and watched.

The woman further alleged that the accused not only raped her but also used threats to silence her. “They threatened to kill my boyfriend and arrest my parents,” she stated.

She also said the accused had recorded the assault and used the footage to blackmail her. “He showed two videos of me being naked from when he raped me. He threatened to show everyone this video if I do not co-operate and come whenever he calls me,” she said in the written statement.

‘Tried to hit with a hockey stick’

Describing the incident, the woman said, “He also tried to hit me with a hockey stick…I just left myself like a dead body. He finished his forceful penetration and then left me. I went outside the room at 10:05 PM. He asked me not to tell anyone.”

According to police, the three accused confined the woman in a guard room on the ground floor of the college building. The assault allegedly took place between 7:30 PM and 10:50 PM.

The woman informed her parents later that night, and a police complaint was filed the next day. Investigators have seized the mobile phones of the accused and sent them for forensic analysis.

Accused linked to ruling TMC, says police

Police also confirmed that Mishra’s social media profile showed links to the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC), identifying him as a former TMC youth wing leader at the college.

Mishra’s lawyer, Azam Khan, denied the charges, saying, “These are baseless allegations against my client. He is being framed because of a political tussle.”

Source : https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/fir-details-horror-of-kolkata-law-student-s-gangrape-i-touched-his-feet-he-didn-t-let-go-101751070501983.html

A surge in private school fees across India, particularly in Delhi, is triggering protests and court battles as families struggle with affordability, arbitrary hikes, and threats of student expulsion. With some fees doubling in five years, parents demand regulatory reforms and financial transparency from schools.

Hundreds of Indian families are protesting against steep and, in many cases, allegedly unlawful hikes in private school fees, which have more than doubled in some schools over the past five years. Parents across major cities including Delhi, Pune and Hyderabad say the increases are unsustainable, pushing household budgets to the brink and leading to student expulsions, despite legal protections.
The tipping point came in Delhi, when a prominent school in Dwarka allegedly expelled students, including 14-year-old Aaditya Mattey, for unpaid fees. Aaditya, who was preparing for his English exam on 9 May, was escorted out of his classroom by school security guards and sent home without explanation.
“Two or three minutes after I entered the class, guards and bouncers asked me to leave the room,” Aaditya said.

His father, Divya Mattey, refused to pay the new annual fee of Rs 189,096, nearly double the Rs 93,400 he paid in 2020. The family, along with dozens of others, is now fighting the school in court. “We never thought a school of this stature would treat children like this – bar them from classrooms, assign bouncers and make them sit in the library,” Mr Mattey told the BBC.

The experts assured the Shashi Tharoor-led standing committee that there was no immediate cause for alarm regarding Bangladesh, especially compared to Pakistan

Concerns about the radicalisation of youth in neighbouring countries were discussed during a key meeting of the Parliamentary Standing Committee on External Affairs, chaired by Dr Shashi Tharoor. The discussion, focused on India-Bangladesh relations, included expert testimonies from former national security adviser Shivshankar Menon, Lt Gen Syed Ata Hasnain (Retd), former High Commissioner to Bangladesh Riva Ganguly Das, and strategic affairs analyst Professor Amitabh Mattoo.

The meeting addressed the growing apprehensions over China and Pakistan’s increased engagement with Bangladesh. Several committee members expressed concern about the implications of this evolving regional dynamic, given India’s already strained ties with both China and Pakistan. However, experts assured the panel that there was no immediate cause for alarm regarding Bangladesh, especially compared to Pakistan.

According to the experts, the Pakistani army remains deeply radicalised, unlike the Bangladeshi army, which does not exhibit similar traits. This distinction is a key factor in assessing the strategic outlook of India’s eastern neighbour. They also noted that media narratives often exaggerate the closeness between Bangladesh and India’s adversaries.

BJP MP Kiran Choudhry, also a member of the panel, recalled her father Brigadier Atma Singh Sejwal’s contribution during the Bangladesh Liberation War, reiterating India’s longstanding friendship with Bangladesh.

In response to a question about Sheikh Hasina’s presence in India and how it might be perceived in Bangladesh, the experts drew parallels with India’s historic record of granting refuge—from the Dalai Lama to various political figures—reinforcing that this aligns with India’s humanitarian ethos.

Opposition MPs also emphasised the importance of enhancing bilateral engagement, particularly because states like West Bengal and Tripura share deep linguistic and cultural ties—and long, porous borders—with Bangladesh. Several members proposed increasing people-to-people exchanges, including media and journalist programmes, to deepen mutual understanding.

Chairman Shashi Tharoor described the session as “an excellent and in-depth discussion”, confirming that a detailed report would be submitted to Parliament soon. “We had first-class experts before the committee today. Members raised many important questions, and we received comprehensive responses,” he said.

On the politically sensitive issue of illegal migration from Bangladesh—often flagged by BJP leaders across states like West Bengal and Jharkhand—Tharoor noted that the number of such cases has “significantly declined”, based on inputs received by the committee.

When asked about the ongoing water-sharing disputes and whether the issue was discussed, especially in light of West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee’s concerns, Tharoor said, “You’ll have to wait for the final report to know more.”

Source : https://www.news18.com/india/bangladesh-army-not-as-radical-as-pakistans-experts-to-parliamentary-panel-on-external-affairs-9408692.html

The Kashmir Super League is all set to begin in the first week of July, writing a new chapter in the history of the region as the Union Territory gets first such tournament.

In a historic first in Jammu and Kashmir, the region’s first-ever corporate franchise-based football tournament was inaugurated on Friday, writing a new chapter in the sporting history of the Union Territory.

Secretary of the J&K Sports Council, Nuzhat Gul, officially inaugurated the player bidding ceremony of the Kashmir Super League (KSL) at an event in Srinagar.

Organised in collaboration with the J&K Sports Council, the Kashmir Super League represents a bold leap forward for grassroots football in the Union Territory.

The league aims to usher in a new era of structured, opportunity-driven sport in the Valley by connecting emerging talent with professionally managed, corporate-backed teams.

“Kashmir Super League is not just a tournament,” said Nuzhat Gul. “It’s a transformative movement. By bringing corporates, youth, and sport together, we’re building a sustainable ecosystem, bold, organised, and full of opportunity for the next generation.”

The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from all six franchise owners, corporate sponsors, and football supporters from across the Valley, a testament to the growing excitement and ownership around the sport.

Financial Empowerment Of Athletes

One of the most defining features of this league is the direct financial empowerment of athletes. With bidding amounts ranging from thousands to lakhs, young footballers are receiving payments directly from the corporate franchises, an unprecedented model in the region. For many, this is the first time their sporting talent is being rewarded not just with recognition, but with real, life-changing value.

In homes across Kashmir, these young athletes are now being seen not only as players but as professionals, breadwinners, and local heroes, igniting dreams in their communities and inspiring the next generation.

The player auction marks a pivotal moment in the KSL journey, one that goes beyond contracts and matchdays. It signals a shift towards professionalism, structure, and sustainable sporting careers in a region where raw talent has often outpaced opportunity.

Source : https://www.news18.com/india/jk-hosts-first-ever-franchise-football-kashmir-super-league-athletes-bag-lakhs-in-auction-9408607.html

Officials said that the services of the chief operating officer Abraham Zachariah, two senior vice-presidents and the head of training, were terminated

Airport services firm Air India SATS Services (AISATS) Private Limited on Friday said it has taken “firm disciplinary action” against four executives for hosting a party at its office, days after a video clip of the gathering sparked criticism.

Officials in the know of the development said the services of the four executives – chief operating officer Abraham Zachariah, two senior vice-presidents and the head of training – were terminated for their direct involvement in the party that appeared to have been hosted days after the Ahmedabad plane crash.

AISATS is a joint venture between Tata Group-owned Air India and Singapore’s SATS Ltd, a global provider of gateway and food solutions. In India, the company offers a range of airport services, including ground handling and cargo operations.

In a statement, AISATS said it stood in solidarity with the families affected by the tragic loss of AI 171 and expressed regret over the lapse in judgment shown in the internal video.

“At AISATS, we stand in solidarity with the families affected by the tragic loss of AI 171 and deeply regret the lapse in judgment reflected in a recent internal video. The behaviour does not align with our values, and firm disciplinary action has been taken against those responsible as we reaffirm our commitment to empathy, professionalism, and accountability,” its spokesperson said.

The statement didn’t mention when the party took place.

The backlash began after a video posted on X on June 20, appeared to show AISATS staff dancing to music during an in-office celebration. Many people criticised the party that appeared to have been hosted just days after the London-bound Air India 171 flight crashed just outside Ahmedabad airport, killing around 260 people.

Source : https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/4-aisats-executives-seen-partying-days-after-ahmedabad-crash-fired-101751061058762.html

To streamline the identification of hydrogen-powered vehicles, the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has proposed a new category of registration number plates, differentiated by distinct colour codes based on vehicle type.

According to a draft notification issued on Friday, hydrogen-fuel-operated vehicles will soon sport colour-coded number plates combining green and blue backgrounds, with figure colours varying based on the vehicle’s purpose.

For commercial hydrogen vehicles, the number plates will have a green top half and a blue bottom half, with yellow-coloured figures. Private hydrogen vehicles will feature the same green-blue colour combination, but with white figures.

Vehicles operating as cabs for rent will have a black top half and blue bottom half, with yellow figures on the plate.

Source : https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/government-proposes-dual-colour-number-plates-hydrogen-vehicles-2747423-2025-06-28

Nearly 625 devotees were hospitalised during Puri Ratha Yatra due to extreme heat, humidity, and overcrowding. Several were injured near Balagandi as Lord Balabhadra’s chariot got stuck, causing chaos.

Nearly 625 devotees required medical attention after the Ratha Yatra in Puri on Friday, as sweltering heat, humidity, and overcrowding triggered a series of isolated health emergencies and minor injuries.

Officials confirmed that 625 people were treated at various medical facilities, with many reporting symptoms such as vomiting, fainting, and minor injuries. According to Dr Kishore Satapathy, Puri Chief District Medical Officer, most of the affected individuals received preliminary treatment at OPDs and were later discharged, as reported by the news agency PTI. No casualties have been reported.

Odisha Health and Family Welfare Minister Mukesh Mahaling attributed the surge in medical cases to the extreme heat and humid weather. “The primary reason behind the illnesses was the oppressive climate during the procession,” he said to PTI

Approximately 70 individuals were admitted to the District Headquarters Hospital in Puri, and nine of them were reported to be in critical condition.

A significant portion of the chaos occurred near the Balagandi area, where Lord Balabhadra’s chariot, Taladhwaja, remained stuck for over an hour. The prolonged halt caused severe crowding in the area, trapping several devotees who sustained injuries while trying to escape the congestion.

Volunteers from both government and private organisations promptly assisted in evacuating the injured and transporting them to hospitals.

Source : https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/ill-hospitalised-heat-overcrowding-during-puri-ratha-yatra-odisha-2747428-2025-06-28

Shefali Jariwala, renowned as the “Kaanta Laga girl” and a contestant on Bigg Boss 13
, tragically passed away at 42 on the night of June 27, 2025, in Mumbai. According to multiple reports, she suffered a sudden cardiac arrest late that evening. Her husband, actor Parag Tyagi, along with three others, rushed her to Bellevue Multispeciality Hospital in Andheri, but she was declared brought in deceased. A hospital receptionist confirmed she “had expired before she was brought in,” and her body was subsequently sent for a post-mortem at Cooper Hospital.

Journalist Vickey Lalwani noted that she arrived at Bellevue around 11:25 pm, accompanied by her husband and others.Staff confirmed that doctors attempted to revive her, but she showed no signs of life when brought in . A statement from Bellevue’s RMO referred further queries to cardiologist Dr Vijay Lulla, while Cooper Hospital’s AMO said the final cause would be confirmed only after the post-mortem.

Born on December 15, 1982, Shefali soared to fame in 2002 with the remix of “Kaanta Laga,” earning her iconic status.Her career spanned cameo roles in films like Mujhse Shaadi Karogi, appearances in dance shows (Nach Baliye seasons 5 and 7), and reality TV with Bigg Boss 13. She also balanced her public career with personal health battles, having long endured epileptic seizures and depression .

The entertainment industry and her fans are in mourning. Close friend and singer Mika Singh expressed deep sorrow, stating he “still can’t believe it,” while fellow celebrities like Divyanka Tripathi, Aly Goni, and Kamya Panjabi conveyed shock and grief for Parag and Shefali’s family.

Source : https://www.spotboye.com/bollywood/news/shefali-jariwala-passes-away-at-42-kaanta-laga-star-dies-of-sudden-cardiac-arrest-leaving-fans-and-industry-in-shock/685f4d7098e7b5da75cca51c

Pakistan has written to India multiple times to revoke the suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty, but Jal Shakti Minister CR Paatil said the water will not go anywhere

Jal Shakti Minister CR Paatil on Thursday said India will not change its stance on the suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty even if Pakistan writes multiple times asking to review the decision.

Pakistan has written to India to revoke the suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty, but Paatil said the water under the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) will not go anywhere.

Asked about Pakistani leader Bilawal Bhutto’s comments on the treaty, he said Bhutto has said many things for politics. Pakistan’s former foreign minister recently threatened India over the suspension.

“The water won’t go anywhere… What he says is his own opinion… We are not afraid of false threats,” Paatil said at a press conference. “He also talked about blood and water flowing but we are not scared of such hollow threats.”

The Indus Waters Treaty was put in abeyance after the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack.

“This decision belongs to the Indian government. Whatever decision is taken will only benefit the nation,” he said.

According to a source quoted by news agency ANI, the central government has decided to divert water meant for Pakistan under the IWT for use in four Indian states — Rajasthan, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, and Delhi. The jal shakti ministry is working on infrastructure development at a war-footing level to implement this decision.

Source : https://www.news18.com/india/not-afraid-jal-shakti-minister-says-pakistans-letters-wont-change-indias-stance-on-indus-waters-treaty-ws-l-9406591.html

DRI seized 39 containers with 1,115 metric tonnes of Pakistani goods at Nhava Sheva Port in Navi Mumbai

The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) has seized 39 containers carrying 1,115 metric tonnes of goods of Pakistani origin at Nhava Sheva Port in Navi Mumbai. The items, valued at around Rs 9 crore, were originally from Pakistan but were routed to India through Dubai and the UAE.

The operation, codenamed “Operation Deep Manifest,” exposed the illegal import of Pakistani goods that were routed through third countries to bypass India’s trade restrictions. The Ministry of Finance confirmed the seizure in an official statement on Thursday.

According to the ministry, the goods clearly violated India’s import rules, which ban the direct or indirect import and transit of items from Pakistan. One partner of the importing firm has been arrested in connection with the case.

The Indian government had imposed a full ban on Pakistani imports after the Pahalgam terror attack, effective from 2 May 2025. Earlier, goods from Pakistan were taxed at a 200 per cent customs duty. Despite these strict measures, some importers have tried to mislead authorities by falsely declaring goods as coming from other countries.

“In two separate cases, these consignments were seized at Nhava Sheva port. The consignments were falsely declared as UAE-origin, masking their Pakistani origin.,” said the Ministry of Finance.

The investigation found that the goods were first sent from Pakistan to Dubai using one set of containers and vessels, and then re-shipped to India using different ones. Document checks also confirmed cargo movement from Karachi Port (Pakistan) and transshipment at Dubai’s Jebel Ali Port before reaching India.

Authorities also uncovered financial links and money transfers involving Pakistani businesses, raising concerns about illegal money flows.

Source : https://www.news18.com/india/dri-seizes-39-pakistani-containers-worth-rs-9-crore-at-navi-mumbai-port-ws-l-9406422.html

The Ministry of External Affairs said that the United States should treat visa applications of Indian citizens on the basis of merit. The MEA’s remarks came after the US asked visa applicants to share their social media usernames or handles of each platform they have used in the last five years.
“Visa, and immigration matters pertain to sovereign functions of any country. But, we have seen the guidelines issued by the US Embassy, providing details of social media identifiers in visa applications,” said Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal on Thursday.
“But it is our belief that all visa applications of Indian nationals should be treated on the basis of merit. We remain engaged with the US side on all mobility issues and consular issues to ensure that the legitimate interests of Indian nationals are safeguarded…” he added.

Earlier on Thursday, the US Embassy in India cautioned applicants against “omitting” social media information as it could lead to “visa denial and ineligibility for future visas”.
The statement which was posted on X read, “Visa applicants are required to list all social media usernames or handles of every platform they have used from the last 5 years on the DS-160 visa application form. Applicants certify that the information in their visa application is true and correct before they sign and submit.”
“Omitting social media information could lead to visa denial and ineligibility for future visas,” it added.
Earlier on June 23, the US Embassy asked those applying for an F, M, or J non-immigrant visa to switch the privacy settings of their social media accounts to “public” to facilitate vetting, which it said was necessary to establish their identity and admissibility to the US under law. F or M category is for student visas and J category for exchange visitor visa.

Source : https://www.timesnownews.com/india/visa-applications-should-be-treated-on-the-basis-of-merit-india-on-us-social-media-vetting-article-152161867

In a bid to boost regional cooperation, the Indian Navy hosted the Indian Ocean Naval Symposium (IONS) Working Group Meeting on Maritime Security (IWG-MARSEC) on June 24 and 25 in New Delhi.

The meeting brought together representatives from 13 IONS member nations: Australia, Bangladesh, France, India, Kenya, Mozambique, Oman, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Tanzania, and Thailand.

The IWG-MARSEC serves as a key platform for dialogue and cooperation among navies in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).

Rear Admiral Nirbhay Bapna, Assistant Chief of Naval Staff (Foreign Cooperation & Intelligence), reaffirmed India’s commitment to regional maritime security and highlighted the importance of multilateral efforts to tackle evolving challenges at sea.

Source : https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/indian-navy-hosts-13-nations-in-naval-working-group-meeting-to-boost-maritime-security-2746825-2025-06-26

The Maharashtra Health Department has initiated a high-level inquiry into alleged irregularities in two major equipment tenders worth over Rs 60 crore. The tenders, issued by the Deputy Director of Health Services (Transport), Pune, in July 2024, were for the procurement of Ice Lined Refrigerators (ILRs) and Deep freezers used to store vaccines across the state.

According to a detailed complaint accessed by India Today TV, the tender process was marred by manipulation and overpricing. The complaint alleges that although the Health Department had sought and secured administrative approval for top-specification cold chain equipment featuring advanced technologies such as a rotomoulded body, remote temperature monitoring, and lifetime warranties, the tenders were floated and awarded for lower-specification products. Despite the downgrade in quality, the equipment was procured at prices comparable to or higher than those approved for high-specification items.

The approved budget per unit was Rs 3.84 lakh for ILRs and Rs 4.24 lakh for Deepfreezers, with requirements for 1,700 ILRs and 1,300 Deepfreezers. However, as per the complaint, the actual market cost of these products was significantly lower, approximately Rs 70,000 each. Yet, the tendered prices were Rs 3.05 lakh per ILR and Rs 2.45 lakh per Deepfreezer. Notably, both companies that won the contracts had listed their product prices on the WHO website as Rs 70,000 to Rs 80,000 per unit.

The complaint further states that multiple applicants were disqualified on technical grounds, leaving only two companies in contention. These two reportedly withdrew their bids for the alternate tenders, resulting in each company being the sole eligible bidder for one contract. This sequence of events raised concerns of possible cartelisation and alleged collusion with officials in the DDHS office.

Fourteen points of allegations have been raised in the complaint, including manipulation of the tendering process to favour specific companies, questionable disqualification of other applicants, and suspiciously fast-tracked payments. Although an initial audit cleared the DDHS officials and the companies involved, the complainant has challenged the findings and is considering approaching the Bombay High Court.

Interestingly, while the department claims that no payments have been released, the complaint alleges that large sums were already disbursed, despite pending deliveries or records of simultaneous deliveries at multiple locations on the same day.

Responding to the allegations, Dr Nitin Devmane, Officer on Special Duty to the Maharashtra Health Minister, confirmed the formation of a high-level inquiry committee.

Source : https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/maharashtra-order-probe-health-department-tender-scam-vaccine-equipment-2746871-2025-06-27

The journey began with traditional rituals and prayers. Bliss Resort proprietor Manish Malhotra felicitated the pilgrims with garlands and tilak, describing the moment as a “rare spiritual privilege.” “After years, this pious opportunity has returned to our resort. It is not just an event but a sacred service for us,” he said.

For the first time in six years, the sacred Kailash Mansarovar Yatra has resumed, rekindling spiritual fervour among devotees across the country and abroad. A group of 45 pilgrims, including devotees from Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and a Malaysian national of Indian origin, were ceremoniously flagged off on Thursday from Bliss Resort in Bahraich. The group will travel via Nepalgunj en route to Tibet (China).

The journey began with traditional rituals and prayers. Bliss Resort proprietor Manish Malhotra felicitated the pilgrims with garlands and tilak, describing the moment as a “rare spiritual privilege.” “After years, this pious opportunity has returned to our resort. It is not just an event but a sacred service for us,” he said.

Mukesh Bansal, the tour coordinator from Meerut, said the group comprises devotees from various districts of Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand. One of the pilgrims, Seema Grover, has travelled from Malaysia to join the yatra. The pilgrims had travelled from Meerut by train and reached Bahraich via Lucknow.

From Nepalgunj, the group will fly to Simikot and then take a helicopter to Hilsa. After crossing a footbridge into Tibet, they will spend two days acclimatizing to the high altitude before reaching the revered Mansarovar Lake on June 29. There, they will spend three days offering prayers, performing Rudrabhishek, and meditating.

The pilgrimage includes the demanding yet spiritually enriching 52-kilometre circumambulation (parikrama) of Mount Kailash, either on foot or on horseback. Pilgrims will also visit Yam Dwar, a symbolic gateway to the realm of the divine.

Mansarovar Lake is considered the celestial abode of Lord Vishnu, believed to be his Kshirsagar. According to belief, divine beings descend to the lake between 3 and 4 a.m., and past pilgrims have reported seeing star-like orbs or lights touching the waters at dawn.

Tour operator Anshul Bansal stated that approximately 22,000 pilgrims are expected to undertake the yatra this year. The Uttar Pradesh government, under Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, is providing a financial grant of ₹1 lakh to each pilgrim from the state.

Source : https://www.freepressjournal.in/india/kailash-mansarovar-yatra-resumes-after-6-years-45-pilgrims-flagged-off-from-bahraich-in-uttar-pradesh-video

Following its large-scale service at the Maha Kumbh Mela, the Adani Group is now supporting the Puri Rath Yatra with free meals, beverages, safety gear, and volunteer services—reflecting its continued commitment to seva rooted in Indian spiritual tradition.

Following its extensive, mostly volunteer-driven initiative to feed the masses during the Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj earlier this year, the Adani Group has now shifted its focus to another of India’s most revered religious festivals – the Rath Yatra in Puri, Odisha.

Held annually at the Lord Jagannath Temple in Puri, the nine-day chariot procession draws millions of pilgrims from across the country and beyond.

In keeping with chairman Gautam Adani’s belief that ‘Seva Hi Sadhana Hai’ (Service is Worship), the Adani Group is undertaking a comprehensive seva effort to support both pilgrims and frontline officials during the Rath Yatra from June 26 to July 8, sources said.

This year’s support includes nearly 4 million meals and drinks distributed free of cost; designated food counters providing free, nutritious meals to pilgrims and officials; beverage counters across the city offering cool drinks to beat the Odisha heat; support for lifeguards from the Puri Beach Lifeguard Mahasangha; volunteers for beach clean-up, especially plastic waste; free T-shirts for official volunteers; fluorescent safety vests for municipal workers; and also a variety of jackets, raincoats, caps and umbrellas for officials and devotees.

This is through collaboration between the Adani Group, the Puri district administration, ISKCON and local volunteer organisations.

The group, which has been working in Odisha through the Adani Foundation across sectors, such as rural healthcare, school infrastructure and livelihoods, sees this seva as part of a larger spiritual continuity in India’s public life, sources said.

For the Adani Group, corporate social responsibility has always extended beyond infrastructure, education and healthcare. Increasingly, it includes direct and active participation in India’s spiritual and cultural life – not as a sponsor, but as sevak.

Earlier this year, during the 45-day Maha Kumbh Mela, the Adani Group had supported food distribution and pilgrim welfare services on a massive scale in collaboration with ISKCON and Gita Press. On January 21, chairman Gautam Adani personally took part in seva at the Kumbh, underscoring the Group’s message that social service is not a sideline activity but a central value.

If the Maha Kumbh was about scale, the Rath Yatra is about intimacy, sources said. While the numbers in Puri may be smaller, the energy is no less intense and the logistical complexity immense.

Through its Rath Yatra involvement, the Adani Group is not just offering services – it is reinforcing a view of development that is grounded in Indian culture, community and compassion.

Source : https://www.freepressjournal.in/business/after-maha-kumbh-effort-adani-group-offers-seva-at-puri-rath-yatra-with-meals-safety-gear-volunteer-support

India’s refusal to endorse a joint communique at the SCO meeting over terrorism concerns blocked its issuance, highlighting regional tensions.

The Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) defence ministers’ meeting couldn’t issue a joint communique on Thursday after India refused to endorse the document because it didn’t address its terrorism-related concerns, officials aware of the matter said.

Defence minister Rajnath Singh, who attended the meeting at Qingdao in China, refused to sign the joint communique as it was silent on the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack in which 26 people were killed but mentioned Balochistan and the hijacking of the Jaffer Express by Baloch militants in March, the officials said, asking not to be named.

Pakistan’s insistence on not having any reference to the Pahalgam attack, while retaining the reference to the situation in Balochistan, stymied the finalisation of a joint statement, the officials said. The SCO works by consensus and a joint communique cannot be issued if even one member state doesn’t endorse it.

China, the current president of the SCO, has deep military and strategic ties with Pakistan, which it strongly supported during the recent four-day clashes with India under Operation Sindoor. The operation was India’s direct military response to the Pahalgam terror strike, the worst attack on civilians since the 26/11 Mumbai attacks.

External affairs ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal responded to a question about the SCO meeting’s failure to issue a joint communique by tacitly pointing to Pakistan’s role in the matter.

“I understand [the meet] could not adopt a joint statement. I also understand that certain member countries could not reach consensus on certain issues and hence the document could not be finalised. On our side, India wanted concerns on terrorism reflected in the document, which was not acceptable to one particular country, and therefore the statement was not adopted,” he said.

A press release issued by the Indian side is “very instructive in how we look at the threat of terrorism”, he said.

“The defence minister, in his address, called upon these 11 countries to come together to fight terrorism in all its forms and manifestations… He also reiterated the need to uphold that the perpetrators, organisers, financers, sponsors of reprehensible acts of terrorism, including cross-border terrorism, need to be held accountable and brought to justice,” Jaiswal said.

Singh further said SCO members must be “in lockstep in our endeavour in strengthening stability and security in our neighborhood”, he added.

In his address, Singh said every act of terrorism was criminal and unjustifiable, and the bloc must unite in eliminating the menace for collective safety and security. He said India launched Operation Sindoor, exercising its right to defend itself against terrorism and pre-empt and deter further cross-border attacks.

During the Pahalgam terror attack, victims were shot after they were profiled on religious identity, and the The Resistance Front — a proxy of UN-designated terror group Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) — claimed responsibility for it, Singh said.

“The pattern of Pahalgam attack matches with LeT’s previous terror attacks in India. India’s zero tolerance for terrorism was demonstrated through its actions. We have shown that epicentres of terrorism are no longer safe and we will not hesitate to target them.”

India launched the Operation Sindoor in the early hours of May 7 and struck terror and military installations in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), It triggered a four-day military confrontation with Pakistan involving fighter jets, missiles, drones, long-range weapons and heavy artillery before the two sides reached an understanding on stopping all military action on May 10.

The biggest challenges faced by the region were related to peace, security and trust-deficit, with increasing radicalisation, extremism and terrorism being the root cause of these problems, Singh said.

“Peace and prosperity cannot co-exist with terrorism and proliferation of weapons of mass destruction in the hands of non-state actors and terror groups. Dealing with these challenges requires decisive action.”

On May 15, Singh questioned if nuclear weapons were safe in Pakistan’s control and custody and demanded that its arsenal be placed under the supervision of global nuclear watchdog International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), calling the neighbour “irresponsible and rogue”.

“It is imperative that those who sponsor, nurture and utilise terrorism for their narrow and selfish ends must bear the consequences. Some countries use cross-border terrorism as an instrument of policy and provide shelter to terrorists. There should be no place for such double standards. SCO should not hesitate to criticise such nations,” Singh said in Qingdao.

Singh called for proactive steps to check the spread of radicalisation among the youth, acknowledging the significant role of the RATS (regional anti-terrorist structure — a body under the SCO) mechanism in tackling the challenge. “The joint statement of the Council of SCO Heads of State on ‘Countering Radicalisation leading to Terrorism, Separatism and Extremism’ issued during India’s chairmanship symbolises our shared commitment.”

Source : https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/india-refuses-to-sign-sco-statement-over-pahalgam-101750963290910.html

Investigators typically face lengthy delays in air crash probes when damaged black boxes must be sent to original equipment manufacturers for extracting data.

Investigators have started analysing data extracted from the black box retrieved from Air India flight 171 to find clues on why the Boeing 787 Dreamliner crashed shortly after take off from Ahmedabad airport on June 12 , the government said on Thursday.

A team led by the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB), the designated authority for air crash investigations in India, extracted both cockpit voice recorder and flight data recorder data after the devices were recovered from the crash site and flown to the bureau’s lab in Delhi, the government said in a statement. The team, set up according to International Civil Aviation Organisation norms, is led by the Director General of AAIB and includes technical experts from AAIB and the US National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), an aviation medicine specialist and an ATC (air traffic control) officer, the government said.

The statement indicates a crucial break in the investigation. Investigators typically face lengthy delays in air crash probes when damaged black boxes must be sent to original equipment manufacturers for extracting the data.

The Boeing 787 has two black boxes, one at each end of the aircraft, for redundancy. Each black box, which is in fact coloured bright orange, in a 787 contains what is known as the enhanced airborne data recorder (EADR) that includes the flight data recorder (FDR) and the cockpit voice recorder (CVR).

One set was recovered from a rooftop of a building at the crash site on June 13 and the other from the wreckage on June 16 and kept under police protection and CCTV surveillance.

Shortly after takeoff, the aircraft crashed into a medical college complex in nearby Meghaninagar and burst into flames, killing 241 of the 242 passengers and crew on board and at least 19 more in the vicinity. The tail of the aircraft that was lodged on the roof of the mess of the residential wing of the medical college and other debris strewn over the site are being moving to a building on the airport premises.

“..The black boxes were brought from Ahmedabad to Delhi by IAF aircraft with full security on 24 June, 2025. The front black box arrived at AAIB Lab, Delhi with the DG (director general) of AAIB at 1400 hrs on 24 June, 2025,” the statement said.

“The rear black box was brought by a second AAIB team and reached AAIB Lab, Delhi at 1715 hrs on 24 June,” it added.

Efforts to extract data began the same evening.

“The Crash Protection Module (CPM) from the front black box was safely retrieved, and on 25 June, 2025, the memory module was successfully accessed and its data downloaded at the AAIB lab,” the statement read.

The analysis of cockpit voice recorder and flight data recorder data, the government said, aims to reconstruct the sequence of events leading to the accident and identify contributing factors to enhance aviation safety and prevent future occurrences.

Source : https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/black-boxes-from-crashed-jet-under-examination-says-govt-101750963418226.html

The India-Canada relations hit rock bottom following then Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s allegations in 2023 of a potential Indian link to the killing of Nijjar.

Days after Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Canada, India on Thursday said it is looking at strengthening the bilateral partnership with Ottawa in several areas including trade and energy.

“That particular matter is under judicial process right now. So, we will have to see how it goes,” External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said, referring to the case relating to the killing of pro-Khalistan separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar.

Mr Jaiswal was asked whether there is a clear softening of relations between India and Canada and the Nijjar case.

The India-Canada relations hit rock bottom following then Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s allegations in 2023 of a potential Indian link to the killing of Nijjar.

“It is a legal issue,” Mr Jaiswal said.

The spokesperson also referred to PM Modi’s meeting last week with his Canadian counterpart Mark Carney in Canada’s Kananaskis on the sidelines of the G7 summit. “It was a very productive and a positive meeting. And both sides underlined the need to pursue a constructive and balanced partnership.” “We are looking forward to strengthening our partnership with Canada in several respects — in the economic side, trade side, energy side, on mobility side, student exchange,” he said.

In their meeting, PM Modi and Carney agreed to pursue “constructive” steps to restore stability in India-Canada ties including the early return of envoys to each other’s capitals.

The two prime ministers also underscored the importance of restarting senior ministerial as well as working-level engagements across various domains to “rebuild trust” and “bring momentum” to the relationship.

In October last year, India recalled its high commissioner and five other diplomats after Ottawa attempted to link them to the Nijjar case.

Source : https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/looking-at-strengthening-partnership-with-canada-india-8772251

China’s Defence Minister Dong Jun Thursday held separate bilateral meetings with his counterparts from member nations of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO), including India, Chinese media reported.

The defence ministers of the SCO member states were in this port city of China to attend a two-day conclave.

India was represented by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh.

There is no official word from the Indian side on Singh’s reported meeting with Dong.

A Chinese readout of the meeting said India does not seek confrontation with China and it is for enhancing communication and mutual trust.

Following the eastern Ladakh border standoff, India has been consistently maintaining that peace and stability along the border is a prerequisite for normalisation of overall ties.

The military standoff in eastern Ladakh began in May 2020 and a deadly clash at the Galwan Valley in June that year resulted in a severe downturn in ties between the two neighbours.

The face-off effectively ended following the completion of the disengagement process from the last two friction points of Demchok and Depsang under an agreement finalised on October 21.

In December last, NSA Ajit Doval visited Beijing and held talks with Wang Yi under the framework of Special Representatives (SR) dialogue on the boundary dispute.

Source : https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/chinese-defence-minister-dong-jun-meets-rajnath-singh-at-sco-summit-8770336

UAV manufacturing startup Raphe mPhibr has so far raised $145 million (over Rs 1,200 crore) in the biggest ever fundraise by an Indian aerospace manufacturing firm

UAV manufacturing startup Raphe mPhibr, whose drones participated in Operation Sindoor, has raised $100 million in a funding round led by General Catalyst. The Noida-based startup has so far raised $145 million (over Rs 1,200 crore) in the biggest ever fundraise by an Indian aerospace manufacturing firm.

Raphe mPhibr Chief Executive Vivek Mishra told NDTV the key to beating China in drone technology and market is to build “a very strong ecosystem for design, development, and manufacturing.”

Giving an example from his own startup’s experience, Mr Mishra said they needed an internal combustion engine for one of their long-endurance drones, but they could not find an ideal one, so they ended up building one that perfectly matched their needs.

“For one of our long-endurance drones, we needed an internal combustion engine. Anything existing in the market would be either too expensive or too heavy or would not meet performance [parameters]. So we decided that we would design and manufacture the internal combustion engine here,” Mr Mishra said.

“And we were able to do it. This was India’s first design of an internal combustion engine. The goal was not to recreate anything, but to reduce size, weight, increase performance, and attune it to the requirement for the UAV and hence the user,” Mr Mishra said, referring to unmanned aerial vehicles.

He added that a lot of companies in India can focus on research and manufacturing. “We can then come up with unique products for the unique requirements of India.”

Raphe mPhibr proved its mettle during Operation Sindoor, when India launched strikes against Pakistan in response to the terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir’s Pahalgam that killed 26 tourists. Their drones fired missiles at Pakistani targets. Since then there has been a huge surge in the Indian military’s interest in acquiring more of these systems from domestic firms.

The Indian Army, for instance, just ordered 450 suicide drones from a competitor and is all set to order hundreds more from the Noida-based startup. With enough resources, Raphe mPhibr is expected to innovate and deliver more capable drones to the military.

“This was our Series B round where we raised $100 million, led by General Catalyst. A lot of our existing investors like Amal Parekh and Think Investment also pitched in this round as well. We$100 started almost a decade ago and this was a major [funding] round that we did to support the increase in capacity for our research and manufacturing,” Mr Mishra told NDTV.

On the huge interest in Raphe mPhibr’s products following Operation Sindoor, Mr Mishra said their vision from Day 1 of operations was to develop a strong research and manufacturing capability in India.

“We have been silently working for around a decade to develop the capacity where we are able to not only do research on the system level, but also do research and manufacturing on a subsystem level, where in each and every part of the drone, be it the structures, be it composites, be it electronics, wire harnesses, or even software – are designed and manufactured here,” Mr Mishra said.

“We have a unique manufacturing capability where state-of-the-art manufacturing techniques along with research are under one roof. For us, it’s the same old vision. The value has increased wherein we are raising a larger amount compared to the last round, but this is towards the same vision that we have to be able to do more deep research into every field and focus on manufacturing and indigenous capabilities,” the Raphe mPhibr CEO said.

He expressed optimism that Indian engineers who leave the country to look for opportunities abroad would return in large numbers to work in the exciting field of drone tech. He said they have been seeing a trend where hundreds of scientists who have been working in the US for up to 15 years and even young scientists showing excitement in getting opportunities to work in drone tech and related fields in India.

Source : https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/after-operation-sindoor-success-indian-drone-startup-raphe-mphibr-raises-massive-100-million-8770940

The Supreme Court on Thursday stayed proceedings in a criminal case filed against Shaadi.com founder Anupam Mittal over the platform’s alleged failure to verify details of a man who allegedly used the matrimonial website to defraud a woman [Anupam Mittal vs. State of Telangana & Anr.].

A Bench of Justices Sandeep Mehta and Joymalya Bagchi passed the interim order while hearing Mittal’s challenge to a Telangana High Court order that had refused to quash the criminal case against him.

The case arose from a complaint filed earlier this year by a woman who said she met a man through Shaadi.com and was later cheated by him. She alleged that the man took over ₹10 lakh from her under false pretences and later threatened to morph and publish her photos when she demanded repayment.

Although Mittal was not named in the original complaint, he was later added as an accused during the investigation. The allegation is that Shaadi.com failed to verify the user’s identity before allowing him to interact with others on the platform.

Mittal told the Court that the man in question had verified his profile through mobile OTP but had chosen not to upload any government ID. This was visible on his profile, and the complainant had proceeded to engage with him outside the platform of her own accord. The platform’s safety guidelines, Mittal submitted, clearly warn users against sharing financial details or transferring money to other users.

It was also submitted that Shaadi.com functions as an intermediary, similar to traditional matrimonial ads, and cannot be held criminally liable for the independent actions of its users. Mittal argued that the case against him was entirely baseless and amounted to a misuse of the criminal process.

The High Court had refused to go into these issues, holding that since the charges involved offences punishable with less than seven years, the investigation against Mittal could continue.

Taking note of the submissions, the Supreme Court stayed all further proceedings and sought a response from the Telangana Police on the issue.

Source : https://www.barandbench.com/news/supreme-court-stays-cheating-case-against-shaadicom-founder

The Axiom-4 mission’s crew, including Shubhanshu Shukla, received a jubilant reception upon arriving at the International Space Station. The spacecraft, named Grace, achieved a successful soft docking at 16:01 while over the North Atlantic.

The Axiom-4 crew, including Shubhanshu Shukla, received a warm welcome with hugs and celebratory drinks as they entered the International Space Station on Thursday.

The newly launched spacecraft, Grace – the fifth in the Dragon series – successfully completed a soft docking with the International Space Station at 16:01 while orbiting over the North Atlantic Ocean.
“At 6:31 am EDT (4:01 IST) on Thursday, the SpaceX Dragon spacecraft docked to the International Space Station for the fourth private astronaut mission to the orbiting laboratory, Axiom Mission 4,” the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (Nasa) announced in a statement.

After the spacecraft’s soft docking, a secure connection – known as hard-mating – was established as 12 sets of hooks locked the two orbiting structures together, allowing power and communication links to be activated. Hatch-opening procedures took about two hours to complete before the astronauts could enter the space station.

Source : https://www.timesnownews.com/india/axiom-4-shubhanshu-shukla-enters-international-space-station-to-hugs-and-cheer-first-visuals-article-152159223

According to the police, the couple were discovered dead in their room when an attendant went to serve them tea

An elderly couple were found dead in their room at an old-age home in Bengaluru more than a month after their son moved them into the facility.

The were found hanging by an attendant on Tuesday morning. The incident took place at the Kamalamma Ramakrishnappa old-age home in Talaghattapura area in the city.

The deceased were identified as R Krishnamurthy, aged 81, and his wife K Radha, aged 74, originally from Madurai in Tamil Nadu. The couple had been living with their son, K Vijay, a tech company director, and his wife at an apartment in Doddakallasandra before being moved to the old-age home on 18 May this year.

According to the police, the couple were discovered dead in their room when an attendant went to serve them tea. After repeated knocks went unanswered, the staff member looked through the ventilator and raised an alarm, Indian Express reported.

Old-age home staff informed the Talaghattapura police, who arrived at the scene and broke open the door. No suicide note or message was found at the scene or on their mobile phones, police added.

In a statement to the police, the couple’s son, Vijay, told that his parents had differences with him and also complained about the food prepared by his wife. He said they had earlier stayed at an old-age home in Byatarayanapura in 2021, but returned home in 2023. However, the issues reportedly continued, which led to their recent move to the Talaghattapura facility.

Vijay told the police that on the night of 23 June, his parents had a heated argument over watching television. He said they had dinner together afterward and went to bed. The next morning, they were found unresponsive.

Source : https://www.news18.com/india/bengaluru-elderly-couple-found-hanging-at-old-age-home-ws-l-9406495.html

At least three people died in the Rudraprayag bus accident and nine others were missing, with officials fearing that the missing are dead.

At least three people were killed and nine others were missing after a bus with 20 on board veered off the highway in Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand and plunged into the Alaknanda river on Thursday morning, officials aware of the matter said, adding that those missing were likely dead.

At least six people were killed and nine others went missing in two separate road accidents in Uttarakhand on Thursday, officials said, adding that nine others sustained injuries and are receiving treatment.

Bus accident in Rudraprayag

In the first case, a 31-seater bus veered off the highway in Gholtir area of Rudraprayag district and plunged into the Alaknanda river at around 7.50am. The bus with 20 people on board was en route from Rudraprayag to Badrinath, officials said.

At least three people died in the incident and nine others were missing, with officials fearing that the missing are dead. “Three people have been confirmed dead, including Vishal Soni (42) from Rajgarh in Madhya Pradesh, Dreamy (17) from Surat in Gujarat, Gauri Soni (41) from Rajgarh in Madhya Pradesh,” Rudraprayag superintendent of police (SP) Akshay Prahlad Konde said.

State disaster response force (SDRF) media in-charge Vineet Devrani said that the eight people who sustained injuries were thrown off the bus before it submerged in the river. “Rescue teams from the police, fire department, SDRF, and local residents reached the site promptly and began rescue operations,” he said. “The injured who were flung out were brought up to the road and taken to the district hospital in Rudraprayag.”

Rudraprayag chief medical officer Dr Ram Prakash said the four of the injured sustained critical injuries and have been referred to AIIMS Rishikesh. “The four individuals airlifted to AIIMS Rishikesh include Deepika Soni (42), Hemlata Soni (45), Ishwar Soni (46), and the bus driver Sumit Kumar (23).”

“A speeding truck came from the opposite side and hit us on my side of the bus after which I lost control and the bus fell into the Alaknanda,” Kumar said.

The SP, however, said, “The preliminary investigations point toward negligence by the driver and a possible mechanical fault in the vehicle as probable causes of the accident,” he said, adding that a first information report (FIR) was registered under sections 125 (endangering life or personal safety of others), 106 (causing death by negligence), and 281 (driving a vehicle negligently on a public road) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS)”.

Car accident in Dehradun

In the second accident, three people were killed and another was critically injured after a car fell off a 300-feet-deep gorge near Jajret village in Kalsi area of Dehradun district, police said.

Kalsi police station in-charge Deepak Dhariwal said that the car veered off the road and plunged into the Amlava river. Personnel from police and SDRF rushed to the spot and began a rescue operation.

Source : https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/12-feared-killed-in-uttarakhand-accident-as-rain-sparks-hill-havoc-101750986885081.html

NIA teams launched searches at 18 locations in the three northern states in the morning. They seized various incriminating materials, including mobiles, digital devices and documents, officials said.

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) on Thursday conducted a series of searches across Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh to probe Khalistani terror network, officials said.

NIA teams launched searches at 18 locations in the three northern states in the morning. They seized various incriminating materials, including mobiles, digital devices and documents, officials said.

The searches were conducted at the premises of suspects linked with banned outfit Babbar Khalsa International (BKI) operative Kulbir Sidhu, US-based gangster Manish alias Kaka Rana, and their nodes based in India and various other countries, according to a statement issued by the probe agency.

Sidhu, originally from Yamunanagar in Haryana, is currently in Germany and is a key aide of designated terrorist and BKI chief Wadhawa Singh Babbar, who is based in Pakistan, it said.

Sidhu is also an accused in the NIA case related to the murder of Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) leader Vikas Prabhakar in Nangal, Punjab, in April 2024.

The searches were conducted as part of the NIA’s ongoing investigation into the recent BKI-linked grenade attack at the residence of former Punjab Minister Manoranjan Kalia.

“The terror attack on the Punjab ex-minister’s house in Jalandhar was committed on the night of 7th April 2025 by accused Saidul Ameen, who was arrested by the state police on 12th April,” the statement said.

This was one of the series of grenade attacks carried out by BKI operatives in Punjab, on the directions of foreign-based handlers of the proscribed terrorist organisation, it added.

While in Punjab, searches were carried out in Hoshiarpur, SBS Nagar, Jalandhar, Gurdaspur, Tarn Taran and Mansa districts, in Haryana, the NIA teams cracked down in the districts of Kurukshetra, Yamuna Nagar, Karnal and Ambala.

Source : https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/anti-terror-agency-nia-raids-in-punjab-haryana-up-to-probe-khalistani-terror-network-8770505

Terrifying visuals have emerged from Himachal Pradesh’s Kullu district, where flash floods triggered by relentless monsoon rains have caused rivers to swell and carry hundreds of wooden logs downstream.

A viral video circulating on social media shows a torrent of water filled with massive logs racing through river channels, a sight eerily reminiscent of scenes from the film Pushpa, but tragically real.

The flash floods, intensified by days of heavy rainfall, led to widespread landslides, uprooting trees and carrying debris from hillsides into rivers.

However, what has shocked many is the sheer volume of timber, much of it believed to be commercially cut, raising concerns about the role of illegal logging and deforestation in exacerbating the crisis.

Authorities are on high alert. Rescue teams, including the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), are working alongside local communities to intercept floating logs using temporary barriers.

The priority is to prevent the timber from damaging dams, bridges, and other critical infrastructure.

“Floodwaters mixed with timber pose a dual threat, they intensify erosion and can clog or damage hydro infrastructure,” said a local official.

Source : https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/himachal/this-shot-is-not-from-pushpa-movie-but-kullu-flashfloods-watch-terrifying-video-of-hundreds-of-logs-flowing-downstream/

British F-35B fighter jet has been stranded in Kerala since June 14 and has developed “engineering issues”, UK High Commission has said.

The British High Commission on Wednesday said that its F-35B fighter jet, which made an emergency landing at Thiruvananthapuram International Airport on June 14, developed engineering issues whilst on the ground, precluding its return to the aircraft carrier.

This comes as the American-made British fighter plane has been grounded for over 10 days in India and is unable to return to the HMS Prince of Wales aircraft carrier.

In a statement, the High Commission said that the advanced fifth-generation aircraft would be repaired in Kerala, for which a team from the United Kingdom will arrive in India.

“A UK F-35 aircraft was unable to return to HMS Prince of Wales due to adverse weather conditions. Prioritising safety, the aircraft diverted to Thiruvananthapuram International Airport in India, where it landed safely. The aircraft has subsequently developed an engineering issue whilst on the ground, which precluded its return to the Carrier,” the UK High Commission said.

“Engineers from HMS Prince of Wales assessed the aircraft, and it was decided that the support of a UK-based engineering team was needed. At this time, we do not have a forecast for the aircraft being repaired. To minimise disruptions to the regular airport operations, the aircraft will be moved to a space in the Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul facility hangar once specialist equipment and UK engineering teams arrive,” it added.

The High Commission also said that the UK government has been coordinating with the Indian government and the Indian Air Force and Navy, along with the airport authorities.

The advanced fifth-generation fighter jet, which is part of the Prince of Wales Carrier Strike Group sent to the Indo-Pacific, was heading back to its base after finishing joint sea exercises with the Indian Navy. According to officials, the jet couldn’t return to the aircraft carrier on the night of June 14 because of bad weather in the area. To ensure safety, the jet was redirected to Thiruvananthapuram airport, where it landed safely.

Source : https://www.news18.com/india/uk-high-commission-f-35-jet-stuck-at-kerala-airport-no-takeoff-date-due-to-engineering-issues-9404443.html

Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has arrested three accused, including a brother of the then Sub-Post Master (SPM), Lakhaoti, Sub-Post Office, Bulandshahar (now deceased) and two private persons, in a case related to a fake postage stamps scam of Rs. 2.5 Crore, as per an official statement.

CBI had registered a case on December 19, 2024 on the basis of complaint dated December 12, 2024 made by the Postal Department, Bulandshahar Division, UP against two accused including the then Sub-Post Master (SPM), Lakhaoti, Sub-Post Office, Bulandshahar and a private person and other unknown public servant and private persons on allegations that the accused public servant (now deceased) in criminal conspiracy with the accused private person and other unknown person is involved in criminal misconduct by using fake postage stamps, the probe agency said.

According to CBI, it was also alleged that during May 2023 to November 2024, the accused booked registered articles of worth ₹2.78 Crore using fake postage stamps, whereas the actual sale of postage stamps at Lakhaoti Sub Post Office was only ₹28 lakh.

Therefore, the aforesaid act of accused persons has caused wrongful loss to the tune of Rs. 2.50 Crore to the Postal Department and corresponding wrongful gain to themselves and others.

Source : https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/cbi-arrests-3-people-in-fake-postage-scam-case-with-rs-2-5-crore-101750902959223.html

Ready-to-eat mango nectar, mung dal halwa and gajar ka halwa line Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla’s backpack — or the space equivalent — as cultural ambassadors of India during his 15-day voyage to the International Space Station. These nifty 100-gm packs have been prepared by the DIBT – Defence Institute of Bio-Defence Technologies, part of Indian Space Research Organisation or ISRO.

These are “specially designed to meet the space food challenges,” Dr R Kumar, the chief of DBT, told NDTV in an exclusive interview. “Critically, these foods are without any preservatives, commercially sterile and can be stored for more than 12 months in room temperature,” he said.

Asked if the dishes were chosen by the 39-year-old Air Force pilot-turned astronaut, Mr Kumar said, “These products are part of the our proposed Gaganyaan missions. So based on the list of products we provided to ISRO, they have selected these three products and then we worked on making all the requirements following the NASA protocols”.

Asked if there is any special processing required to make the food space-worthy, Mr Kumar said these products are processed, packed in the thermally processed multilayer packaging material. These also undergo “all the packaging integrity test and provides the adequate texture and it can be consumed directly from the package”.

The exotic fare is just meant as a delicacy though, that Group Captain Shukla is expected to share with the crew of Axiom and that of the International Space Station of ISS.

Underscoring these were his favourite foods at a press conference ahead of the lift-off, Group Captain Shukla had told reporters, “There will be plenty of food in space, but I will carry mango nectar, gajar (carrot) ka halwa, and moong dal halwa” to share it with fellow astronauts aboard the ISS.

He is carrying five packets of each item, he has said.

The everyday nutritional requirement of astronauts is taken care of by the US space agency NASA, which is a collaborator.

At noon today, Group Captain Shukla became the second Indian to travel to space on the Axiom-4 mission along with three other colleagues.

The SpaceX Crew Dragon spacecraft flying on a Falcon-9 rocket blasted its way through the skies from the Kennedy Space Centre in Florida — the spot from where Neil Armstrong set off for the moon in 1969.

His journey comes more than 40 years after Wing Commander Rakesh Sharma’s space soujourn.

Over the next 15 days, Group Captain Shukla is set to conduct exclusive food and nutrition-related experiments onboard the ISS. His experiments will examine the impact of microgravity and space radiation on edible microalgae – a high-potential, nutrient-rich food source.

Source : https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/axiom-4-nas-isro-meet-the-man-who-ensured-shubhanshu-shukla-will-have-aam-ras-halwa-in-space-8761672

A man has been arrested from the Navy’s headquarters in Delhi, accused of spying for the Pakistani Intelligence agency ISI apparently for years and even during Operation Sindoor.

Data from his cellphone revealed that Vishal Yadav had provided confidential information related to the Navy and other defense units to a woman who was his Pakistani handler in exchange for money.

Yadav – a clerk at the naval headquarters and a resident of Haryana, was arrested by the Intelligence Wing of the Rajasthan Police.

Vishnukant Gupta, a senior police officer, said the CID Intelligence unit of Rajasthan was constantly monitoring the espionage activities carried out by Pakistani intelligence agencies.

During surveillance, they zeroed in on Yadav, who was in constant contact with a female handler of a Pakistani intelligence agency through social media, he said.

This woman, who calls herself Priya Sharma, was paying him money to extract confidential information of strategic importance, the officer said.
Initial investigation has revealed that Vishal Yadav was addicted to playing online games and needed money to cover his losses.

He was receiving money via cryptocurrency trading account and also directly in his bank accounts, the officer said.

Vishal Yadav is being jointly interrogated by various intelligence agencies at the Central Interrogation Center in Jaipur.

Security agencies are trying to find out who else is involved in this racket and how much sensitive information has been leaked.

Source : https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/navy-headquarters-staff-allegedly-spying-for-pak-arrested-8761867?pfrom=home-ndtv_topscroll