The Congress party spent Rs 248.6 crore on recent assembly elections across five states. Its total receipts during this period amounted to Rs 207.1 crore, showing a deficit. General party propaganda accounted for Rs 143 crore of the total expenditure. The party allocated Rs 105.6 crore towards its candidates and their campaigns. After the polls, the party's cash in bank balance significantly decreased by 45 percent.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah offered an extended parliamentary discussion on student protests. He proposed sitting in Parliament from today until tomorrow to address concerns. Opposition leader Rahul Gandhi rejected the offer, demanding accountability for alleged police actions. Rahul stated the opposition seeks answers, not lectures from the home minister.

A parliamentary committee raised alarm bells over the skill development initiative aimed at persons with disabilities, highlighting a persistent struggle to achieve training goals. There has been a notable deficit in the number of individuals trained as compared to targets set. The committee urged implementing a stronger, industry-integrated strategy to enhance employment results. In response, the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities acknowledged these suggestions.

Himachal Pradesh has been severely affected by monsoon rains, resulting in 70 fatalities and 204 roadblocks. Damages to public property have skyrocketed to over Rs 910 crore. The primary causes of these tragic deaths include landslides and mishaps from steep terrains. Additionally, 93 lives were lost due to road accidents during this challenging period. Restoration efforts are ongoing but are significantly hindered by continuous rain, creating additional hazards.

In a significant development, an FIR has been filed against former TMC MLA Nirmal Ghosh and two individuals in connection with the alleged swift cremation of a junior doctor last year. The doctor's father alleged that the cremation was executed hastily to thwart an autopsy and cover up evidence. Meanwhile, the CBI is independently delving into the related rape and murder investigation.

India's food regulatory authority has implemented a ban on plastic packaging for pan masala. The new regulations require the use of sustainable materials such as paper, paperboard, or other naturally sourced options, explicitly prohibiting synthetic polymers and laminates. However, the use of tin and glass containers for pan masala remains allowed. These changes will come into effect following their publication in the official gazette.

posted, «Earnestly request Hon'ble CM Shri Hemant Soren and the Jharkhand government to sympathetically consider the demands of the students. I strongly believe that a peaceful resolution through dialogue is the best way forward to protect the aspirations of our young candidates.»

K. Muraleedharan, the Health Minister of Kerala, indicated that TG Mohandas obtained bail thanks to a technicality in the law. In response, BJP MLA V. Muraleedharan criticized this as an example of the state's selective retaliation. Mohandas was detained over comments related to a student protest in New Delhi and faced charges under new legislations alongside the IT Act due to a complaint regarding videos that allegedly disrupted public order.

Haryana chief minister Nayab Singh Saini has categorically denied any prospective alliance with Shiromani Akali Dal for 2027 Punjab assembly elections. However, recent discussions between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and SAD leader Sukhbir Singh Badal have led to renewed speculation around possible tie-up. After the meeting, SAD, whose electoral fortunes have waned significantly, changed its perspective on delimitation. The BJP is reportedly keen on dominating any potential alliance.