The Shri Ramlila Mahasangh requested a special preview screening of the upcoming Ramayana film. This demand aims to prevent any scenes that might offend Hindu sentiments. The organization warned of protests if their preview request is not accepted. The film's trailer features Ranbir Kapoor as Rama and Yash as Ravana. Ramayana: Part 1 is scheduled for a Diwali 2026 release.
Exiled author Taslima Nasreen believes Bangladesh's student movement misled people. She drew parallels between past protests and recent demonstrations in Delhi. Nasreen stated that Islamic fundamentalists were behind the Bangladesh movement. This experience reinforced her concerns about the consequences of such actions. The developments in Bangladesh should serve as a cautionary lesson for others.
The Supreme Court criticized Punjab for its resistance to implementing an old decree. Attorney General Venkataramani proposed a cashless settlement for power dues. Himachal and Haryana agreed to the proposal, while Punjab raised objections. The court warned Punjab of consequences if it fails to comply. A final decision is expected on August 12.
Over 150 recruitment exam irregularity cases await trial, some dating back two decades. The CBI will ask high courts to move these pending matters to new fast-track courts. Dedicated prosecutors and resources will be provided to expedite the conclusion of these trials. The new anti-paper leak law mandates day-to-day hearings and trials within three months. This initiative follows recent student protests and calls for examination system reforms.
Pappu Yadav remains defiant after police filed a case against him and other opposition leaders. The FIR stems from a Parliament skit which depicted alleged theft of Ram Temple donations. Yadav stated he is ready to face death to protect people's faith and religious sentiments. Varanasi Police registered the case following a complaint by a religious leader. Another complaint was filed against the MP in the national capital.
Bahujan Samaj Party president Mayawati expelled former Rajya Sabha member Ashok Siddarth from the party. Siddarth faced expulsion for indiscipline and violating party directives in several states. The party chief also announced the expulsion of coordinator Randhir Singh Beniwal for similar reasons. Mayawati clarified that senior Uttar Pradesh office-bearers would not hold state roles. Ramji Gautam will continue as Punjab in-charge until upcoming assembly and Lok Sabha polls.
Karnataka chief minister DK Shivakumar views the Mekedatu dam project as a permanent solution. He stated the Supreme Court and central government have already responded to the proposal. Shivakumar urged all stakeholders to move forward without further delays or wasting time. This project aims to bring both states to the table for amicable discussions. The Cauvery water dispute centers on sharing river waters during periods of low rainfall.
Indian diaspora members voiced concerns over anti-India content and visa issues. Ambassador Vikram Doraiswami assured actions were being taken to address these matters. Visa requirements for Chinese citizens traveling to India will be eased soon. The embassy plans to establish a legal assistance framework for professionals. Cultural outreach programs will also be expanded to promote Indian diversity.
Arvind Kejriwal announced a march to the Prime Minister's residence on Tuesday. He demanded consumers have a choice between pure petrol and E20 fuel. Kejriwal also called for E20 fuel to be priced lower than pure petrol. He challenged the government to release scientific studies supporting the E20 fuel policy. The AAP leader advised consumers to consider electric vehicles for future transportation needs.
The CBI has filed a cheating case against Reliance Capital and Anil Ambani. This action stems from an alleged Rs 1,816 crore loss to the Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation. EPFO invested Rs 2,500 crore in Reliance Capital’s debentures which later defaulted. While the issue was settled earlier, ED findings prompted a new fraud case. Anil Ambani denies any wrongdoing in this matter.
Railway Board committees recommended premature retirement for five Group A officers. This action targets corruption, lack of integrity, and inefficiency within the service. Two senior administrative grade officers and three junior administrative grade officers were affected. These decisions were made under the Indian Railway Establishment Code provisions. Previously, thirty-two officers were retired in 2022 for similar reasons.
Resident doctors face significant psychological distress from long working hours. The National Medical Commission acknowledged these demanding schedules impact their health. The commission stated reasonable working hours are essential for doctor and patient wellbeing. However, NMC expressed inability to enforce this, citing health authorities' domain. A doctors' group highlighted rising suicide cases due to these conditions.
India and China have reopened two key Himalayan trade routes after six years. Traditional border trade resumed Saturday through Lipulekh and Shipki La passes. Chinese authorities restricted the initial batch of traders to twenty people. Indian traders can export 36 categories of goods, while Chinese traders bring twenty. A new trade mart was also inaugurated near the international border.
Goods and Services Tax collections rose 15.4 percent to Rs 2,11,205 crore in July. This increase was largely due to a 29 percent jump in integrated GST on imports. Strong economic activity and higher commodity prices also contributed to the robust tax collections. Central GST mop-up increased 12.3 percent while state GST grew 8.7 percent. Net collections after refunds went up 15.8 percent, reflecting continued economic resilience.
Justice Ujjal Bhuyan questioned the Supreme Court collegium's lack of transparency in judicial appointments. He noted that recent collegium resolutions provided no reasons for their decisions. This opacity, he argued, could allow unsuitable individuals to enter the judiciary. Citizens possess a right to know deliberations concerning judicial elevations and transfers. The JALDI report highlights varying transparency levels across India's higher courts.
India faces a risk of below-normal monsoon rainfall due to El Niño. A positive Indian Ocean Dipole may offer some relief to the country. This oceanic pattern could improve rainfall conditions in southern India. It might prevent the monsoon from slipping into a deficient phase. International forecasts suggest a positive IOD could develop soon.
Two migrant labourers were killed Friday evening in Kulgam, causing panic among workers. Brick kilns across south Kashmir halted operations as labourers stayed indoors. Many workers expressed concerns about their safety and earning a living. Security forces visited the kilns and assured the labourers of protection. Officials directed authorities to ensure the safety of all migrant workers.
Flash floods in Kishtwar's Chatroo area damaged shops and houses early Saturday. Vehicles were washed away, and the national highway sustained damage from debris. The Amarnath Yatra was suspended from Jammu due to incessant rain. Schools remained closed in several districts as a precautionary measure. Affected shopkeepers and business owners will receive government compensation.
NEET-PG exam sees significant changes for candidate convenience and enhanced security. Candidates now select three preferred states for their examination centre locations. The exam duration remains the same, but questions reduce to 180 for more time. Aadhaar and iris biometrics strengthen registration and exam day security measures. NEET-PG 2026 will be conducted in a single shift for uniform assessment.