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.

Congress MP Manish Tewari expressed his disappointment after being overlooked for new roles in Punjab's election committees. He alluded to «insecurities» hindering talented individuals. Despite this, Tewari acknowledged the party's long-standing support and his own dedication. The appointments, announced by the AICC, saw other prominent leaders like Charanjit Singh Channi and Vijay Inder Singla given key positions for the upcoming 2027 Assembly elections.

A crude oil tanker, the MT Sanmar Herald, has successfully docked at Odisha's Paradip Port after a perilous journey from Iraq. The vessel, carrying valuable crude oil, endured shrapnel damage to its bridge during hostilities in the Middle East. Despite facing prolonged delays and navigating a reopened Strait of Hormuz, the ship and its entire crew arrived safely, showcasing remarkable resilience and professionalism.

Indian Navy warship INS Trikand successfully thwarted a piracy attempt on merchant vessel MV Golden Arsenal in the Gulf of Aden. Responding swiftly to a distress call, the warship's presence caused suspected pirates to flee before they could board. Indian Marine Commandos later secured the vessel, which was carrying vital cargo for India. No crew injuries were reported.

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi received a ceremonial welcome at Rashtrapati Bhavan today, marking the start of her three-day official visit to India. She will attend the 16th India-Japan Annual Summit with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. This visit is poised to strengthen their Special Strategic and Global Partnership, focusing on areas like economic security, technology, and defense cooperation.

Trinamool Congress MP Mahua Moitra alleged a mob attack by BJP workers at a party office in West Bengal's Nadia district. She identified 16 individuals, claiming police remained silent spectators for four hours as protesters hurled eggs and mud. Moitra was later escorted out by police. The BJP denied involvement, suggesting internal TMC conflict, while other opposition leaders condemned the incident and police inaction.

NEET UG results are expected by July 20, according to a senior National Testing Agency official. Despite a recent re-examination due to a paper leak, the agency is working diligently to ensure the academic year for MBBS students begins on time, typically in August or September. Over 10,000 challenges were received for the provisional answer key, which was released on June 25.

Delhi finally welcomed the southwest monsoon on Thursday, five days past its usual arrival, bringing much-needed relief from heat. The monsoon is now widespread across northwest India, with heavy rains expected in Maharashtra, Goa, and Gujarat. This marks the first July onset for Delhi since 2021, as the monsoon rapidly advances, nearing full country coverage ahead of schedule.

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi is in New Delhi for a three-day visit, focusing on the 16th India-Japan Annual Summit. Discussions will center on deepening cooperation in economic security, resilient supply chains, emerging technologies, and defence. Both nations aim to bolster their Special Strategic and Global Partnership, with a strong emphasis on investment, innovation, and industrial collaboration amidst evolving global dynamics.

WhatsApp is clarifying its upcoming username feature amidst government concerns about potential fraud and impersonation. The company assures users usernames are optional and will not be publicly searchable. Existing popular names are reserved for legitimate owners. However, the Indian government has asked Meta to halt the rollout until consultations are complete, citing risks of scams and identity spoofing.

The mother of the RG Kar Medical College and Hospital rape and murder victim, BJP MLA Ratna Debnath, has declared she knows the identities of those responsible for her daughter's death and the alleged cover-up. She vowed that all culprits, including those who concealed evidence, will face justice. This statement follows a Calcutta High Court order for a new Special Investigation Team, citing dissatisfaction with the previous probe.

Speaking at a media roundtable on «Bridging Innovation and Affordability in Cancer Care», organised by the Indian Cancer Society (ICS), the experts said that although cancer treatment has advanced significantly, access remains limited due to high costs, inadequate insurance coverage, limited diagnostic facilities and unequal healthcare infrastructure.

India and Malaysia have reviewed their military cooperation, noting steady progress in defense engagements. Discussions covered exchanges, exercises, training, and emerging domains. Both nations agreed to boost collaboration in defense industry, cybersecurity, and disaster relief. They also reaffirmed commitment to regional security and freedom of navigation in the Indo-Pacific, strengthening their strategic partnership.

Following the NEET-UG controversy, the Prime Minister's Office is now overseeing significant exam reforms. The Education Ministry is fast-tracking changes for board exams and entrance tests like NEET and JEE, aiming to reduce the pressure of single-attempt exams. Proposals include incorporating board marks, aligning entrance tests with school syllabi, and exploring multiple attempts and computer-based testing to enhance integrity and minimize risks.

The government has issued an eviction notice to the Delhi Gymkhana Club, citing its «unauthorised occupation of public premises» after the land lease expired on May 22. The Land and Development Office is seeking an explanation for why eviction proceedings shouldn't commence, invoking the Public Premises Act. The 27.3-acre land is deemed critically needed for defence, public security, and other public-interest projects.

Commercial LPG and aviation fuel prices have seen a significant drop, with state-run companies cutting prices by Rs 183.5 and Rs 5 respectively. This easing follows a decline in global crude prices and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. However, domestic LPG and petrol/diesel prices remain unchanged, as oil companies continue to absorb losses from earlier elevated crude bookings. Airfare relief is also unlikely due to ongoing airspace issues.

A high-level committee, formed just a month ago, has swiftly developed a comprehensive questionnaire to investigate demographic shifts across India, including those influenced by illegal immigration. Led by Justice (Retd) Prakash Prabhakar Navlekar, the panel informed Home Minister Amit Shah about its plans to visit states and UTs for on-the-ground insights. The committee will also consult various ministries and aims to submit its recommendations promptly.