Karnataka Chief Minister DK Shivakumar marked his first month in office by visiting former CM Siddaramaiah, seeking his blessings. Shivakumar expressed deep gratitude for Siddaramaiah's visionary leadership and extensive administrative experience, highlighting their invaluable contribution to the state's progress and public welfare. This meeting underscores a spirit of respect and continuity within the Congress party as they continue their work for a stronger Karnataka.

The Indian Embassy in Venezuela is demanding a full investigation into allegations that Indian sailor Rakesh Chauhan's organs were removed before his body was sent home. His family claims he died suspiciously on a Venezuelan vessel, and a second post-mortem in India revealed his body was completely devoid of internal organs. The Forward Seamen's Union of India is also pushing for answers and has highlighted discrepancies in repatriation documents.

India and Japan have jointly condemned Pakistan-sponsored terrorism, specifically naming Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed, and urged global action against terror entities. The leaders also expressed concern over maritime security in the East and South China Seas, opposing unilateral actions. Both nations reaffirmed their commitment to UNSC reforms and permanent membership bids, advocating for text-based negotiations. Discussions also covered the Middle East and Ukraine.

The Supreme Court declined to revoke bail for Sonam Raghuvanshi, accused of her husband's murder during their honeymoon. The Meghalaya High Court had granted bail due to a significant clerical error where police cited a non-existent legal section, failing to properly inform her of the murder charge. Despite reservations, the apex court noted her release and adherence to bail conditions.

Congress has urged Prime Minister Modi to order a Supreme Court-monitored probe into alleged irregularities surrounding Ram Temple donations, terming it a «chanda chori mega scandal.» Citing the UP government's SIT probe as an «eyewash,» the party claims top officials are complicit. AAP leader Arvind Kejriwal echoed these sentiments, alleging powerful individuals involved in land deals and temple construction are being shielded while minor figures are arrested.

Petroleum Minister Hardeep Singh Puri addressed public concerns regarding ethanol-blended fuel, dismissing social media narratives as «make-believe.» He clarified that any mileage reduction in E20-fuelled vehicles is minor, with potential benefits like improved acceleration. The ministry has released a detailed note to counter misinformation and reassure vehicle owners about the safety and established practice of ethanol blending, citing historical support from figures like Henry Ford.

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's visit marked a significant advancement in India-Japan relations, with both nations forging new agreements in AI, energy, and defense. A roadmap for economic security was adopted to strengthen supply chains for critical minerals and semiconductors. Discussions also focused on enhancing bilateral trade through a review of the existing CEPA, underscoring a partnership built on deep mutual trust.

Educators are questioning why classrooms are bearing the brunt of election duty, with entire teaching staffs at two Delhi government schools deployed for Booth Level Officer tasks. This leaves guest teachers to manage hundreds of students, raising concerns about inevitable academic loss, especially for board exam candidates. While acknowledging election importance, teachers advocate for equitable distribution of duties across schools to prevent educational disruption.

The Enforcement Directorate is opting for large-scale compounding of Foreign Exchange Management Act (Fema) cases, with the Reserve Bank of India's approval, to expedite resolutions and avoid lengthy legal battles. Over 150 Fema cases have been terminated in the past 15 months following «no-objection certificates» from the ED. This approach, involving penalty payments, aims to foster a more facilitative business environment in India.

Prime Minister Modi and his Japanese counterpart reaffirmed commitment to an early Quad summit, stressing freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz and opposing restrictive measures. The joint statement unequivocally condemned cross-border terrorism from Pakistan, specifically mentioning groups like Jaish and Lashkar, and supported India's IEA membership. Both nations also voiced opposition to unilateral actions in the East and South China Seas.

The Supreme Court has nullified orders from NCLT and NCLAT due to their reliance on fabricated AI-generated case laws. Justices cautioned against unchecked AI use, emphasizing human control in justice delivery. The court stressed a zero-tolerance approach for unverified AI precedents, declaring any decision based on such material invalid. A committee will now explore this issue, highlighting the risks of delegating critical thinking to AI.

The government has significantly reformed the Drugs (Prices Control) Order, 2013, easing compliance for drugmakers. Overcharging liability is now narrowed, focusing only on stock sold above ceiling prices by retailers or distributors, not entire batches. New drug launches will also see simplified pricing approvals, reducing procedural delays and streamlining market entry for similar products.

Petroleum Minister Hardeep Singh Puri addressed public concerns regarding ethanol-blended fuel, dismissing social media narratives as «make-believe.» He clarified that any mileage reduction in E20-fuelled vehicles is minor, with potential benefits like improved acceleration. The ministry has released a detailed note to counter misinformation and reassure vehicle owners about the safety and established practice of ethanol blending, citing historical support from figures like Henry Ford.

Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha initiated the 57-day Amarnath Yatra 2026 from Jammu, flagging off over 4,800 pilgrims. Extensive security, including armoured vehicles and aerial surveillance, is in place for the journey to the holy cave shrine. The pilgrimage, commencing July 3 and concluding August 28, aims to provide a safe and spiritually fulfilling experience for devotees.

Mehbooba Mufti, the sole non-Shia politician from J&K and Ladakh, flew to Tehran for Ayatollah Ali Khamenei's funeral, an event arranged with a special aircraft due to suspended commercial flights. Several other prominent figures from the region were also invited. The invitation highlighted the deep historical and strategic ties between Iran and India, underscoring the significance of the attendees' presence.

Informal discussions are set to resume in Leh between central officials and Ladakh groups, focusing on previous meeting outcomes and other pressing matters. This follows a recent shutdown protesting alleged backtracking on key agreements, including a legislative body and constitutional safeguards. While a prominent activist continues a hunger strike in Delhi, these talks aim to bridge the gap on crucial demands for the Union Territory's future.

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah advocated for renewed India-Pakistan dialogue, emphasizing it's the sole path to de-escalate tensions. He questioned the criticism faced by J&K politicians for similar calls, contrasting it with the lack of backlash for RSS leaders advocating open talks. Abdullah highlighted the importance of improving neighborly relations, referencing former PM Vajpayee's sentiment.

The BJP has accused senior Congress leader Sonia Gandhi of exhibiting «double standards» by remaining silent on the reported demolition of a gurdwara in Pakistan, while frequently opining on the Gaza crisis. BJP spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla highlighted this perceived hypocrisy, pointing to alleged mistreatment of minorities in Pakistan and other regions. India has officially condemned the gurdwara demolition, urging Pakistan to investigate.

The Election Commission has asked rival Trinamool Congress factions to submit claims regarding party signatories and organizational elections by July 6. This follows a meeting where rebel leader Ritabrata Banerjee presented his group's case, asserting they represent the «real» TMC with significant MLA support. The Mamata Banerjee camp, however, questioned the EC's decision to meet the rebels, alleging procedural violations and political influence.

Indian authorities are ramping up their scrutiny of messaging apps, questioning both Telegram and Signal about their unique username features. This move mirrors previous discussions with WhatsApp concerning alarming trends in online fraud and impersonation. The government is keen on understanding how these platforms ensure user safety and traceability, prompting Telegram to clarify its current functionalities regarding username use.

A recent open letter from prominent Indian and Pakistani citizens urging renewed dialogue for peace faces an uphill battle. The article argues that India-Pakistan relations are stalled not by a lack of meetings, but by deep-seated ideological, political, and institutional divides. Pakistan's military establishment holds the real power, rendering civilian-led talks potentially futile.

India and Japan have solidified their strategic alliance with new defence and technology pacts. Meanwhile, Salman Khurshid will represent India at Ayatollah Khamenei's funeral in Iran. Russia's intense overnight assault on Kyiv claimed at least 17 lives. In sports, Shreyas Iyer made history as the first Indian captain to hit a T20I fifty in England. Separately, a convicted Iraqi human trafficker was found residing in the UK.

Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Omar Abdullah has endorsed calls for dialogue between India and Pakistan, following a letter from 117 eminent citizens urging renewed talks. Abdullah highlighted the long-standing tension and questioned why similar appeals from regional leaders face criticism, while those from RSS figures are accepted. Former Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti also welcomed the RSS leadership's stance, emphasizing the need for improved neighborly relations.

Byelections for three assembly seats in Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, and Gujarat are set for July 30, with results on August 3. The BJP held two seats, Bankipur and Manjalpur, while the Congress represented Datia. Vacancies arose from an MLA's Rajya Sabha election, a death, and a disqualification due to a conviction. The Election Commission has outlined the nomination and withdrawal timelines.

Uttar Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Keshav Prasad Maurya defended Champat Rai amid embezzlement allegations concerning the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust. While acknowledging the incident's painful nature, Maurya urged against turning it into a public debate, stating investigations are underway. Meanwhile, the Faizabad Bar Association demanded the resignation of Rai and two others, threatening protests if they don't leave Ayodhya within three days.