Congress has demanded a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) inquiry into the charges against Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) chief Madhabi Puri Buch in the latest Hindenburg report. File
| Photo Credit: Reuters

SEBI chief’s rebuttal confirms ‘massive conflict of interest’, raises fresh questions: Hindenburg Research

Hours after the stock market regulator’s chairperson Madhabi Puri Buch, and her spouse Dhaval Buch, issued a clarification on a Hindenburg Research report red-flagging their investments in obscure offshore funds linked to the Adani group, and ownership of consulting firms, the U.S.-based short seller said their rebuttal contains important ‘admissions’, raises fresh questions and confirms a ‘massive conflict of interest’.

Hindenburg Research report on SEBI chief raises political storm

Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, on Sunday demanded a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) inquiry into the charges against Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) chief Madhabi Puri Buch in the latest Hindenburg report. The BJP dismissed the claims asserting that many global forces, with the help of the Congress “dynasty”, were attempting to hinder India’s progress.

Adani case: Supreme Court had said it can transfer probe if bias found

The Supreme Court had said cogent evidence of bias or portrayal of inadequacy would convince it to transfer a probe to an independent agency or a court-appointed Special Investigation (SIT) while refusing a plea to drop Securities Exchange Board of India (SEBI) from investigating Hindenburg’s allegations of share price manipulations and other irregularities against the Adani group.

Protests continue in Bengal over rape, murder of Kolkata doctor

Protests continued to rage across medical colleges in West Bengal on Sunday over the alleged rape and murder of a woman doctor at Kolkata’s R G Kar Medical College and Hospital, affecting services for the third consecutive day.

NDA eyes majority in Rajya Sabha after bypolls

The BJP-led NDA is expected to achieve a clear majority in Rajya Sabha after by-elections for 12 seats scheduled next month, which would help the party get the nod for key legislations such as the Waqf (Amendment) Bill.

Paris Olympics: Six medals and six near misses; India finishes 71st in medal tally

Paris 2024 will be remembered for the six medals which brought joy to the Indians as well as the six fourth-place finishes that resulted in heartbreaks. A medal less than what the country got in the previous edition may have restricted the celebrations in the Indian camp, but the mixed bouquet of hits and near misses paints a promising picture of Indian sports.

NCERT removes cartoon on coalition politics, says it cast ‘India in a negative light’

The National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) has removed a political cartoon from the Class 12 Political Science textbook saying that “it shows India in a negative light”. It is one of the multiple changes introduced and made public by the NCERT in its document that chronicles the latest set of changes in rationalised textbooks. 

NEET-PG 2024 held in two shifts across 170 cities

The NEET-PG 2024 was successfully conducted in two shifts at 416 centres across 170 cities by the National Board of Examinations in Medical Sciences, an autonomous body under the Union Health Ministry.

28 dead as rains wreak havoc in north, northwest; several Haryana villages inundated

At least 28 people died in rain-related incidents Sunday as heavy downpours lashed north and northwest India, causing landslides, traffic chaos and house collapses, as well as a dam breach which inundated several villages in Haryana.

Olympics: Bye from Paris and over to vibrant Los Angeles

The gigantic Stade de France resembled a concert hall hosting a party to celebrate the fortnight of sporting excellence as a breathtaking closing ceremony kicked off with athletes marching into the iconic Stade de France to thunderous applause.

This frame grab from video shows wreckage from a plane that crashed by a home in Vinhedo, Sao Paulo state, Brazil, Friday, Aug. 9, 2024.
| Photo Credit: AP

No survivors in Brazil plane that crashed in Sao Paulo with 61 aboard

A passenger plane crashed into a gated residential community in Brazil’s Sao Paulo state on Friday (August 9, 2024), killing all 61 people aboard and leaving a smoldering wreck, officials and the airline said. Officials gave no immediate word of any casualties at the site of the crash in the city of Vinhedo, about 80 kilometres (50 miles) northwest of Sao Paulo, but witnesses at the scene said there were no victims among residents of the neighborhood.

Aman Sehrawat wins bronze for India in 57kg wrestling

Aman Sehrawat didn’t brood. On Thursday (August 8, 2024) evening, up against former Olympic silver medallist Rei Higuchi in the semifinals he barely lasted a round. In no time he trailed 10-0 and the bout was stopped — the Japanese declared winner by technical superiority.

India-Bangladesh ties not dependent on Awami League, says BNP

Indo-Bangla bilateral ties are not dependent on the Awami League and it is “natural to evoke adverse reactions” in Bangladesh over India giving refuge to former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, Senior leaders of Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) said on Friday, August 9, 2024.

Vinesh Phogat appeal: Court of Arbitration for Sport concludes hearing

The hearing into Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat’s appeal against her disqualification from the Olympic finals concluded at the ad-hoc division of the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) in Paris with the IOA insisting that it is hopeful of a “positive resolution”.

Opposition parties prepare to move no-confidence motion against Vice-President

As many as 50 Opposition MPs, sources said, have signed a resolution to bring a no-confidence motion against Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar under Article 67(B) of the Indian Constitution, which states that the Vice-President can be removed by a resolution of the Rajya Sabha passed by an effective majority and agreed upon by the Lok Sabha with a simple majority.

King Charles III ends silence on U.K. far-right riots

King Charles III on Friday (August 9, 2024) made his first comments about riots that have shaken British cities to praise the work of police in countering the violence. The King praised British police and emergency services “for all they are doing to restore peace in those areas that have been affected by violent disorder”, according to a Buckingham Palace spokesperson.

Imane Khelif of Algeria wins women’s welterweight gold amid gender dispute

Algeria’s Imane Khelif, the female boxer thrust into the centre of a a gender dispute at the Paris Games, beat China’s Yang Liu to claim the welterweight Olympic gold medal in crushing fashion, sending her fans into delirium on Friday.

Gazans flee destroyed Khan Yunis as new Israel operation begins

Crowds fleeing Khan Yunis after an Israeli evacuation order gave way to empty streets on Friday as Palestinian residents tried to escape a new Israeli military operation in Gaza’s main southern area. Crowds fleeing Khan Yunis after an Israeli evacuation order gave way to empty streets on Friday as Palestinian residents tried to escape a new Israeli military operation in Gaza’s main southern area.

Three Kuki-Zo village volunteers killed in firing in Manipur’s Tengnoupal

Three village volunteers of the Kuki-Zo community were allegedly killed on Friday (August 9, 2024) morning after district authorities in Manipur’s Tengnoupal confirmed that firing was reported near the Molnoi village area around 9:30 a.m., according to police officials and community members aware of the incident.

Political differences cast aside as thousands bid adieu to Buddhadeb

In a spontaneous outpouring of grief, thousands of people gathered around the Communist Party of India (Marxist) office on 31, Alimuddin Street in the heart of Kolkata on Friday (August 9, 2024) to pay their last respects to former West Bengal Chief Minister Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee.

Sisodia got bail due to a technicality, what are they celebrating: BJP

Reacting to former Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia’s release from Tihar Jail, the BJP on Friday said the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) had little reason to celebrate as Mr. Sisodia had been granted bail “due to a technical reason”.

Bangladesh’s Yunus tackles ‘law and order’ as interim govt begins work

Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus and his newly named interim government set out Friday to restore “law and order” after a student-led uprising and deadly mass protests forced predecessor Sheikh Hasina into exile. A day after returning home from Europe and vowing to “uphold, support and protect the constitution” as he was sworn into office, 84-year-old Yunus began the tough challenge of returning the country to democracy.

Vinesh Phogat of India reacts after winning the match against Yusneylis Guzman Lopez of Cuba.
| Photo Credit: Reuters

Vinesh Phogat announces retirement from wrestling day after Olympic disqualification

Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat on Thursday (August 8, 2024) announced her retirement from wrestling a day after she was disqualified from the 50kg category Paris Olympics finals. The seasoned wrestler was disqualified after weighing 100 grams more than the permissible limit in the morning weigh-in ahead of the final.

Lok Sabha passes Finance Bill, amends LTCG tax provision on immovable properties

The Finance Bill 2024 was passed in the Lok Sabha on Wednesday (August 7, 2024) with an amendment relaxing the recently introduced new capital gains tax on real estate. It allows tax payers an option to switch to a new lower tax rate or stick to the old regime that had higher rate with indexation benefit.

‘Will you arrest him again?’: Delhi High Court asks ED on Arvind Kejriwal’s bail plea

The Delhi High Court on Wednesday (August 7, 2024) questioned the Enforcement Directorate (ED) about the relevance of its challenge to the bail granted to Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, when the Supreme Court had already granted him interim bail in the excise policy-related money laundering case.

Wrestler Antim Panghal and team set to be deported from Paris for disciplinary breach

In a major embarrassment for the country, Antim Panghal and her entire entourage is being deported from Paris for a major disciplinary breach where the young wrestler handed her official accreditation card to her sister who was caught by security while leaving the Games Village.

Tunisian President replaces Prime Minister without any explanation

Tunisian President Kais Saied sacked his Prime Minister Ahmed Hachani without explanation on Wednesday (August 7, 2024) and replaced him with Social Affairs Minister Kamel Madouri, his office said in a statement.

Mirabai Chanu’s bid for 2nd consecutive medal falls short, finishes fourth in Paris Olympics

Mirabai Chanu’s courageous push for a second consecutive Olympic medal ended on a disappointing note with the Tokyo Games silver medallist managing a fourth place finish with an aggregate of 199kg in the weightlifting hall of the South Paris Arena here on Wednesday.

Chaos continues in Bangladesh as authorities scramble to bring law and order under control

Students carried out traffic management as volunteers for the second consecutive day on Wednesday (August 7, 2024) in Bangladesh, as a top police official called on every member of the police force to resume their duties gradually and maintain law and order.

Delhi coaching centre death: Court seeks response from CBI on bail application of basement owners

A Delhi court on Wednesday (August 7, 2024) issued notice to Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) seeking the agency’s reply on the bail applications of four co-owners of a basement of a coaching centre in Old Rajender Nagar where three civil services aspirants died due to flooding, last month.

Mumbai sessions court frames charges against former RPF constable with murder of four persons

A Mumbai sessions court on Wednesday (August 7, 2024) charged a dismissed Railway Protection Force (RPF) constable Chetan Singh Chaudhary with the murder of four persons and promoting enmity between different religious groups.

Turkiye formally asks to join the genocide case against Israel at the UN court

“Turkiye on Wednesday (August 7, 2024) filed a request with a U.N. court to join South Africa’s lawsuit accusing Israel of genocide in Gaza,” Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan said. Turkiye’s ambassador to the Netherlands, accompanied by a group of Turkish legislators, submitted a declaration of intervention to the International Court of Justice in The Hague.

Putin accuses Ukraine of a ‘large-scale provocation’ with its raid in southwestern Russia

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday (August 7, 2024) described a Ukrainian incursion into the country’s southwestern Kursk region as a “large-scale provocation” as his officials asserted that they were fighting off cross-border raids for a second day. Ukrainian officials remained silent about the scope of the operation.

Hamas on August 6, 2024, named Yahya Sinwar, its top official in Gaza who masterminded the October 7 attacks in Israel, as its new leader.
| Photo Credit: AP

Vinesh Phogat enters final in 50kg freestyle; assured of historic Olympic medal

Vinesh Phogat made history. With Himalayan determination, the two-time World championships medallist overcame odds galore to succeed in her third Olympics, by reaching the final of the women’s 50kg final. She was the first Indian woman wrestler to do so.

Hamas names Yahya Sinwar, mastermind of the October 7 attacks, as its new leader in show of defiance

Hamas on Tuesday (August 6) named Yahya Sinwar, its top official in Gaza who masterminded the Oct. 7 attacks in Israel, as its new leader in a dramatic sign of the power of the Palestinian militant group’s hardline wing after his predecessor was killed in a presumed Israeli strike in Iran.

Sheikh Hasina looks at UAE, Saudi for asylum

Twenty-four hours after ousted Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina fled Dhaka and landed at Delhi’s Hindon base, it is still unclear where her final destination will be, as sources confirmed that the United Kingdom is “unlikely” to accept her request for asylum. Meanwhile, it is understood that Ms. Hasina, who had to leave Bangladesh at very short notice is discussing options with other countries like the UAE and Saudi Arabia, apart from those where her immediate family resides: U.S., U.K, Finland and India.

Bangladesh President dissolves Parliament; students want Yunus to head interim government

Bangladesh President Mohammed Shahabuddin on Tuesday (August 6, 2024) dissolved the 12th Parliament, formed through the January 7 national election, and assured the country that fresh elections will be held as soon as possible. This comes a day after Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina stepped down after 15 straight years in power and fled the country, following a crackdown on widespread protests.

Search for missing people in Wayanad disaster to continue, death toll put at 224 so far

The search for bodies of missing people in the Chooralmala-Mundakkai landslides continued on the eighth day on Tuesday. Although no new bodies were retrieved, the search teams retrieved seven body parts from different places.

Government blinks on capital gains tax on real estate

Facing a backlash over changes to the long-term capital gains tax regime announced in the Budget, including critiques from MPs within the NDA coalition, the government has relented to grant some relief for property transactions.

Paris Olympics men’s hockey: Germany enters finals; India to fight for bronze

A relentless Germany dashed the spirited Indian side’s dream of a berth in the final by recording a come-from-behind 3-2 win in the semifinals of the men’s hockey competition in the Paris Olympics at the Yves du Manoir Stadium here on Tuesday.

U.K. government calls on Elon Musk to act responsibly amid provocative posts as unrest grips country

The British government has called on Elon Musk to act responsibly after the tech billionaire used his social media platform X to unleash a barrage of posts that officials say risk inflaming the violent unrest gripping the country. Justice Minister Heidi Alexander made the comments Tuesday morning (August 6) after Mr. Musk posted a comment saying that “Civil war is inevitable” in the U.K. 

Mallikarjun Kharge to hold discussions with Congress-ruled States on judgment on Scheduled Castes sub-categorisation

Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge, Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi and chairperson of the parliamentary party Sonia Gandhi were among the party’s leaders who met on Tuesday to discuss the Supreme Court’s judgment on sub-categorisation of the Scheduled Castes (SC) and Scheduled Tribes (ST).

Bangladesh ex-Prime Minister Khaleda Zia freed after arch-rival toppled

Bangladesh‘s uncompromising former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia has been released from years of house arrest after her bitter enemy Sheikh Hasina was ousted as premier and fled as protesters stormed her palace.

133 Manipur villagers displaced by ethnic conflict in Jiribam return home

In joint efforts led by the district administration of Manipur’s Jiribam, along with the security forces posted in the area, 133 Meitei villagers returned to their homes in Mongbung village, where last month a Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) constable was killed in a gunfight, officials said on Tuesday (August 6) night. 

Citing national security, Defence Ministry declines to share details of staff shortage in armed forces

Citing “national security”, the Defence Ministry has refused to divulge details on the shortage of personnel in the armed forces, which in the past was regularly given out in written responses to questions in Parliament.

Pakistan’s National Assembly passes Bill restricting independent lawmakers from joining other parties

Pakistan’s National Assembly on Tuesday (August 6, 2024) passed a Bill seeking to bar independent lawmakers from joining a party after a stipulated period, with the jailed former Prime Minister Imran Khan’s party voicing a strong protest against it.

A view shows the plenary session of the Summit on Peace in Ukraine, in Stansstad, Switzerland, June 16, 2024.
| Photo Credit: Reuters

Nirmala Sitharaman to hold pre-budget meeting with industry chambers on June 20

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman is likely to hold pre-budget consultations with industry chambers on June 20, sources said. The Union Budget for FY2024-25 is likely to be presented in Parliament in the second half of July. Industry sources said the pre-budget consultation with Ms. Sitharaman would be preceded by a meeting with Revenue Secretary Sanjay Malhotra on June 18.

NTA officials to face action if found involved in NEET irregularities, says Dharmendra Pradhan 

The Central government would take the strictest of actions against functionaries of the National Testing Agency if they were found to be involved in irregularities in the conduct of the NEET, Dharmendra Pradhan, Union Education Minister, said. “Additional wrongdoings have also come to the fore on two accounts. I assure both students and parents that the government had taken the issue very seriously. We will take it to a logical end,” he said.

India refuses to endorse Ukraine meet statement

Only proposals acceptable to both Russia and Ukraine can lead to peace, said India as New Delhi decided to disassociate itself from the final document issued at the conclusion of a Peace Summit in Switzerland. India was among at least seven countries that refused to endorse the “Joint Communique on a Peace Framework” released in Burgenstock, the venue of the two-day summit.

NDA allies to meet before Lok Sabha session to take a call on its Speaker candidate

he announcement of the date for the election of a new Speaker for the Lok Sabha has set off speculation over who could occupy that role come June 26, with National Democratic Alliance (NDA) partners likely to meet around June 22 or June 23 to decide the alliance’s candidate. While the Janata Dal-United (JD (U)) has stated that a BJP claim on the post would be respected by them, the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) is speaking of a consensus “NDA candidate”.

Security officials determined to prevent escalation of ethnic violence in Manipur’s Jiribam district

Jiribam will not be allowed to go the same way as the rest of Manipur, officials in the security establishment asserted as an uneasy calm prevailed in the western district after the violence over the last two weeks. Outsiders from both the Kuki-Zo and Meitei communities — who have been engaged in an ethnic conflict in the State for more than a year — are entering Jiribam district in large numbers, which can potentially lead to a flare-up in the violence, according to officials on the ground. 

Vice President Jagdeep Dhankar inaugurates Prerna Sthal

Vice President Jagdeep Dhankar inaugurated the ‘Prerna Sthal’ on the Parliament House premises, where 15 statues of freedom fighters and icons of Indian history, including statues of Mahatma Gandhi and B.R. Ambedkar, previously established in different parts of the Parliament campus, have been relocated to a single location, amid protests by the Opposition.

Siddaramaiah defends hike in fuel prices; urges Centre to reduce excise duty on petroleum products

A day after the State government hiked petrol and diesel prices by about ₹3 each, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah defended the hike and blamed the Centre for forcing the State to cut sales tax during the earlier years, while it continued to increase the Central excise duty on petroleum products. In a note, he said that while under the “double engine BJP government” Karnataka was forced to reduce the tax, the Union government continued to collect higher Central excise duty from the State, and diverted the resources to other States.

Ukraine Peace Conference: 80 countries agree that respect for territorial integrity will help achieve ‘lasting peace in Ukraine’

Eighty countries have jointly called for the “territorial integrity” of Ukraine to be the basis for any peace agreement to end Russia-Ukraine war, though some key developing nations at a Swiss conference did not join in. The joint communique capped a two-day conference at the Bürgenstock resort in Switzerland marked by the absence of Russia, which was not invited, but that many attendees hoped could join in on a roadmap to peace.

India to host its first multinational air exercise Tarang Shakti in August

The Indian Air Force’s first multinational air exercise, Tarang Shakti-2024, will be held in August, and is likely to see the participation of ten countries, in addition to a few others acting as observers. The exercise is now scheduled to be held in two phases. The first will be held in southern India in the first two weeks of August and the second will be in the western sector from the end of August to mid-September, officials said.

Feasibility study on proposal to establish land connectivity with India in final stages, says Sri Lankan President

Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe said that the feasibility study on a proposal to establish land connectivity with India is in its final stages. This proposal and the prospect of a power grid connection between the two nations are likely to be discussed during the visit of External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar to Lanka this week.

Health Ministry issues inter-departmental referral guidelines for hospitals

Citing significant inconsistencies and lack of accountability in the referral process, the Union Health Ministry has for the first time issued inter-departmental referral guidelines for hospitals to facilitate better communication and cooperation. The ‘Guidelines for Inter-Departmental Referral (within hospitals)’ stress that referrals should be initiated promptly as and when patients require specialised care, diagnostic evaluations or consultations beyond scope of admitting department

Israeli military announces ‘tactical pause’ in attempt to increase flow of aid into hard-hit Gaza

The Israeli military announced a “tactical pause” in its offensive in the southern Gaza Strip to allow the deliveries of increased quantities of humanitarian aid. The army said the pause would begin in the Rafah area at 8 a.m. (0500 GMT, 1 a.m. eastern) and remain in effect until 7 p.m. (1600 GMT, noon eastern). It said the pauses would take place every day until further notice.

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal addresses supporters outside Tihar Jail after the Supreme Court granted him interim bail in a money laundering case, amid the ongoing Lok Sabha elections, in New Delhi on May 10, 2024.
| Photo Credit: PTI

Arvind Kejriwal bail | Grant of interim bail is based on individual facts of each case, Supreme Court notes

The Supreme Court order in the Arvind Kejriwal case said interim bail is granted on the basis of individual facts of each case. A Bench of Justices Sanjiv Khanna and Dipankar Datta has thus negated any propensity to use the interim bail order in the case of Mr. Kejriwal as a judicial precedent in the future.

As Sandeshkhali women retract complaints, NCW writes to EC seeking inquiry

Women from Sandeshkhali in West Bengal were being forced to withdraw their complaints by the ruling Trinamool Congress, the National Commission for Women (NCW) said on Friday and asked the Election Commission of India (EC) to inquire into the matter.

12 Naxalites killed in encounter with security forces in Chhattisgarh’s Bijapur district

At least 12 Naxalites were killed in an encounter with security forces in Chhattisgarh’s Bijapur district on May 10, Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai said. The gunfight took place in the forest near Pidia village under Gangaloor police station limits when a team of security personnel was out on an anti-Naxal operation, police had said earlier.

Save country from dictatorship, says Kejriwal after release from Tihar

Minutes after walking out of Tihar Jail in New Delhi on May 10, Delhi Chief Minister and AAP supremo Arvind Kejriwal asked supporters rallying outside the premises to save the country from dictatorship. Mr. Kejriwal was granted interim bail by the Supreme Court earlier in the day and he was released shortly afterwards.

India backs Palestine’s bid for full U.N. membership

India on May 10 voted in favour of a draft U.N. General Assembly resolution that said Palestine is qualified and should be admitted as full member of the United Nations and recommended that the Security Council “reconsider” the matter “favourably”.

Wrestlers sexual harassment case | Delhi court orders framing of charges against Brij Bhushan Singh

A Delhi court on May 10 framed charges of sexual harassment against and outraging modesty against Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MP from Kaisarganj and former Wrestling Federation of India President Brij Bhushan Singh. Mr Singh will now face trial for allegedly harassing five women wrestlers.

Health Ministry issues guidelines for confirming heatstroke and heat-related deaths

The Union Health Ministry has issued standardised guidelines for confirming heatstroke and heat-related deaths in the country. Prepared by the National Programme on Climate Change and Human Health (NPCCHH) and National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), the set of guidelines is aimed at helping hospitals become aware of the criteria to label a death as heat-related/ heat stroke and bring in evidence-based medical decision-making processes.

Haryana Cabinet to meet on May 15; Congress urges Governor to impose President’s rule, hold Assembly election

The Haryana Cabinet has been summoned for a meeting on May 15, amidst political turmoil triggered by three Independent MLAs withdrawing their support to the State’s Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government. According to sources, the Cabinet is likely to decide to convene a session of the State Assembly to prove the government’s majority.

Prajwal Revanna sexual assault case: Another rape case filed against Hassan MP

The “absconding” Hassan MP Prajwal Revanna, accused of multiple instances of sexual abuse, has been booked for rape in another case. This is the second rape case against him. Prajwal was booked for rape in the first case on May 2.

Priyanka Gandhi Vadra calls Amethi ‘holy land’, her late father’s ‘karmabhoomi’

Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Friday highlighted the decades old ties the Gandhi family shares with Amethi. Ms. Vadra requested voters to support the Congress candidate and described Amethi as her late father’s ‘karmabhoomi’ and her own ‘holy land’.

EC rebuts Kharge’s letter to INDIA bloc parties, calling it an attempt to push biased narrative

The Election Commission rebutted a letter written by Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge to his colleagues in the Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA) on the alleged “discrepancies in voting data” released by the election panel. The EC called Mr. Kharge’s letter an “attempt to push a biased narrative under the guise of seeking clarifications”. 

PM Modi accuses Congress of conspiring to erase Hindu faith

Launching a withering broadside against the Congress, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on May 10 accused the Opposition party of hatching conspiracy to erase Hindu faith from the country.

After 18 months, China sends Ambassador to India

After 18 months of China not having an Ambassador in India, senior diplomat Xu Feihong arrived in Delhi to assume office as the 17th Ambassador to India on Friday, Chinese government-run media CGTN reported.

IPL-17: GT vs CSK | Gill and Sai Sudharsan hammer the daylights out of CSK attack

The previous occasion Gujarat Titans met Chennai Super Kings at the Narendra Modi Stadium, B. Sai Sudharsan stroked his way to a brilliant 96 in the 2023 IPL final in a losing cause. Against the same opponent on Friday, Sai Sudharsan went on to score his maiden IPL hundred (103, 51b, 5×4, 7×6) to power Titans to 231 for three after being asked to bat.

Police and paramilitary personnel stand guard at the polling station during the third phase of Lok Sabha Polls, in Etah on May 7, 2024.
| Photo Credit: ANI

Three Independent MLAs withdraw support to BJP government in Haryana

Three Independent MLAs supporting the Bharatiya Janta Party (BJP) government in Haryana on May 7 announced the withdrawal of their support to the government, even as the Congress party demanded the holding of Assembly election under the President’s rule in the State, as the government has been reduced to a “minority”.

Karnataka BJP post on Muslim quota | Election Commission tells X to immediately take down post

The Election Commission of India (ECI) ordered X, formerly Twitter, to take down an animated video posted by BJP Karnataka. The video features caricatures of Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, advancing the party’s recent messaging that the Congress is diverting funds and resources away from SC/ST/OBC Hindus towards Muslims. As of May 7 evening, the post had garnered over 90 lakh views, and had not yet been taken down. 

CBI arrests four for pushing Indians into Russia-Ukraine war

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has so far arrested four accused in a case related to trafficking of Indian nationals for combat role in the Russian Army. Arun and Yesudas Junior, both residents of Kerala’s Thiruvananthapuram, were held on Tuesday in the case registered on March 6. The other two accused, Nijil Jobi Bensam from Kanyakumari and Anthony Michael Elangovan from Mumbai, were earlier arrested on April 24 and are in judicial custody.

Reject proponents of lies, hatred for a brighter future, Sonia Gandhi urges voters

Sonia Gandhi on Tuesday alleged that Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s niti (policy) and niyat (intentions)have led to unemployment, crimes against women and discrimination against Dalits, Adivasis and minorities.

SC to think about giving bail to Kejriwal for campaigning; ED calls it a luxury a ‘real aam aadmi’ cannot afford

The Supreme Court on May 7 decided to mull over the question of granting interim bail to Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal to enable him to campaign as an Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader for the ongoing Lok Sabha election.

Advertisers to submit self-declarations before promoting products in media, SC orders

The Supreme Court on Tuesday directed that advertisers should submit self-declarations that they are not misrepresenting or making false claims about products before promoting them in the media.

Gujarat sees 55% turnout; Modi, Shah cast their votes

Over 55% voting turnout was registered till 5 p.m. in the 25 parliamentary constituencies of Gujarat where polling was held in the third phase of the Lok Sabha election on Tuesday. There are 265 candidates in the fray, including three Cabinet ministers Amit Shah, Mansukh Mandaviya and Parshottam Rupala and a Minister of State Devusinh Chauhan.

Fact-check | Misleading posts cast doubt over the credibility of EVMs

Even as the third phase of polling for the Lok Sabha election draws to a close, some on social media have been casting aspersions on the Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs), the device used to electronically record and count votes cast in elections.

U.K. court rejects fifth bail plea of PNB scam accused Nirav Modi

The fifth bail application of diamantaire Nirav Modi, who is one of the prime accused in the ₹13,578-crore Punjab National Bank (PNB) scam, has been turned down by a United Kingdom court. In April 2021, the Secretary of State of U.K.’s Home Department had ordered his extradition to India, but it has not been implemented so far.

Interpol issues Blue Corner Notice against Prajwal Revanna 

Interpol issued on Tuesday (May 7) a Blue Corner Notice against “absconding” Hassan JD(S) MP Prajwal Revanna, accused of multiple instances of sexual abuse. This will help the Special Investigation Team probing the case to locate Prajwal Revanna. He flew to Germany from Bengaluru on April 27 using his diplomatic passport. His whereabouts are currently not known, amid reports that he later flew to Dubai or Hungary.

Foreign Secretary to visit Bangladesh, talks may feature China

China’s planned project along the Teesta in Bangladesh is expected to feature during Foreign Secretary Vinay Mohan Kwatra’s upcoming visit to Bangladesh, a prominent daily in Dhaka has reported.

Want 400 seats to prevent Congress from bringing back Article 370 and locking Ram Temple: PM Modi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on May 7 said he needed 400 seats in the Lok Sabha election to prevent the Congress from “bringing back Article 370 [in Kashmir] and putting a lock on Ayodhya Ram Temple”, drawing parallels to the Rajiv Gandhi government overturning the Supreme Court ruling in 1985 in the Shah Bano case, which he characterised as appeasement politics.

Polling ends in Karnataka; month-long, nail-biting wait begins

As the curtains came down on the hard-fought and high-pitched Lok Sabha elections amid the sweltering heat in Karnataka on Tuesday, it will be nearly a month-long tense wait for the electoral fortunes to be known. The counting of votes across the country will take place on June 4.

U.K. court rejects fifth bail plea of PNB scam accused Nirav Modi

The fifth bail application of diamantaire Nirav Modi, who is one of the prime accused in the ₹13,578-crore Punjab National Bank (PNB) scam, has been turned down by a United Kingdom court. In April 2021, the Secretary of State of U.K.’s Home Department had ordered his extradition to India, but it has not been implemented so far.

Supreme Court provides relief to nearly 24,000 Bengal teachers

The Supreme Court on May 7 gave relief to the West Bengal government by protecting nearly 24,000 teaching and non-teaching staff members from immediate termination from their jobs in schools across the State.

Militant commander Basit Dar, wanted in 18 cases, among two killed in Kulgam operation: J&K police

Two militants, including a ‘commander’ of The Resistance Front (TRF), were killed in a two-day anti-militancy operation in south Kashmir’s Kulgam on Tuesday. 

More than 63% polling in third phase, sporadic violence in West Bengal

At least 63.27% of the electorate in 93 constituencies cast their votes on May 7 in the third phase of the Lok Sabha election, which has now crossed the halfway mark, with voting complete in 282 out of 543 seats. Apart from sporadic incidents of violence in West Bengal, the voting was largely peaceful. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah were among the voters in this phase, with the latter also in the fray.

A Constitution Bench led by CJI D.Y. Chandrachud hears the electoral bonds case on October 31, 2023. Photo: YouTube/@supremecourtofindia5950

Supreme Court flags possibility of electoral bonds being used to trade favours

A Constitution Bench on October 31 raised the scenario of influential entities covertly setting up persons with verified accounts to purchase electoral bonds for them through the regular banking route in order to curry favour or anonymously enter into a quid pro quo with ruling political parties.

Suspected extremists kill police officer in Moreh; Manipur CM vows action

Manipur Chief Minister Nongthombam Biren Singh has vowed action against extremists who gunned town a sub-divisional police officer (SDPO) in the India-Myanmar border town of Moreh on Tuesday. Chingtham Anand Kumar, the SDPO, was on duty overseeing the cleaning of the grounds of a school when suspected Kuki militants opened fire on him. He succumbed to his injuries at a local primary health centre.

India to choose between Bangladesh and Nepal candidates for WHO regional chief

India, along with other South Asian and South East Asian countries, will choose between candidates from Bangladesh and Nepal for the post of Regional Director of the World Health Organization (WHO), bringing a bitterly fought campaign to an end.

The vote will take place on November 1, the third day of the 76th session of the WHO Regional Committee for South-East Asia being hosted by Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya in Delhi.

Kalamassery blast accused Martin sent to judicial custody till November 29

Martin V.D., the sole accused in the Kalamassery Jehovah’s Witnesses convention centre blast case, was on October 31 remanded in judicial custody till November 29.

Martin informed the court that he would argue his case as the party in person and declined to receive legal aid provided by the State. Though a lawyer engaged by the Kerala State Legal Services Authority was present at the court, the accused said he wanted to present his case in his voice.

October rain in southern India ‘sixth lowest’ since 1901

The northeast monsoon, which replaced the southwest monsoon in October, and brings vital rain to several parts of southern India, has been the “sixth lowest” since 1901 so far, India Meteorological Department (IMD) Director General, M. Mohapatra said at a briefing on October 31.

Apple warns Opposition MPs about ‘state-sponsored’ attacks on their iPhones; government assures probe

Over a dozen Opposition leaders and journalists received email alerts from U.S.-based tech giant Apple on Monday night, informing them that their digital devices were being targeted by “state-sponsored attackers”. On Tuesday, the Union government said it would launch an investigation into the alerts, though the Minister for Electronics and Information Technology Ashwini Vaishnaw described Opposition claims of snooping as “vague”.

List anti-pollution steps: SC to Delhi, 4 States

The governments of Delhi, Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and Rajasthan were on Tuesday directed by the Supreme Court to file affidavits within a week enumerating measures initiated by them to control air pollution in the national capital.

A three-judge Bench of Justices S.K. Kaul, Sudhanshu Dhulia, and P.K. Mishra said the city is now marred by worsening air quality and it is difficult to even step outside the house, adding that stubble burning is a major cause of the rising pollution. It posted the matter for hearing on November 7.

Maratha quota stir | Jarange Patil issues fresh ultimatum, lashes out at State government

With no let-up in the Maratha quota stir, beleaguered Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde called for an all-party meeting on November 1 in a bid to defuse the situation even as quota activist Manoj Jarange Patil issued a fresh 24-hour ultimatum to the government on Tuesday to grant immediate reservation to the Marathas via a special session of the State Legislature.

Trains involved in accident not fitted with Kavach but have Vigilance Control Device, says Waltair Divisional Railway Manager

Train no. 08532 Visakhapatnam-Palasa passenger and the 08504 Visakhapatnam-Rayagada passenger, which were involved in the rear collision in Vizianagaram district, do not have the anti-collision device – Kavach. While railway officials suspect overshooting of the signal as the cause of the accident, they do not rule out other possibilities.

Canada bans WeChat and Kaspersky on government phones

Canada on Monday banned popular Chinese messaging app WeChat and Russian platform Kaspersky from government smartphones and other mobile devices, citing privacy and security risks.

Two dead as Bangladesh garment workers protest low pay

Thousands of garment workers in Bangladesh walked off the job in protest at low wages Monday, sparking clashes with security forces and damaging multiple factories in unrest that left at least two people dead, police said.

ICC World Cup | New Zealand and South Africa cross swords in a key clash

Even before the Men’s World Cup began, November 1 clash was supposed to be among the matches to watch out for in the league stage. The manner in which the tournament has progressed makes it a tantalising affair.

After all, New Zealand and South Africa are among the rank favourites to enter the semifinals. The winning outfit at the Maharashtra Cricket Association stadium will set one foot in the last-four, while the losing team may well have to face the table-topper in the semifinal.

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy meets people who got injured in the Vizianagaram train derailment accident, at Vizianagaram Government Hospital.
| Photo Credit: ANI

ED summons Arvind Kejriwal in Delhi excise policy case

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has summoned Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, who is also the Aam Aadmi Party’s national convener, for recording his statement on November 2 in connection with the Delhi excise policy case.

The ED case is based on a First Information Report registered by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) alleging multiple irregularities in the formulation and implementation of the Delhi excise policy (2021-22) which was scrapped following corruption allegations.

Andhra Pradesh train accident | ‘Overshot’ main cause of fatal accident, suspects Railway officials

The death toll in the train accident near Kantakapalli in Vizianagaram district of Andhra Pradesh rose to 14, and the number of injured has gone up to 38, according to officials who apprised Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy of the tragedy when he met the victims at a hospital in Vizianagaram on October 30. Railway officials, however, put the toll at 13 and the injured at 30.

SC puts Maharashtra Speaker on a deadline to decide defection pleas against breakaway Shiv Sena, NCP lawmakers

The Supreme Court on October 30 directed Maharashtra Assembly Speaker Rahul Narwekar to decide disqualification petitions filed under the Tenth Schedule (anti-defection law) of the Constitution against the Chief Minister Eknath Shinde camp in the Shiv Sena dispute by December 31, 2023.

Electoral bonds promote ‘clean money’ donations to political parties, AG tells SC

Attorney General of India R. Venkataramani has backed the government’s electoral bonds scheme in the Supreme Court, extolling it as a measure which promotes contribution of “clean money” to political parties. Mr. Venkataramani said the scheme ensured that “tax obligations” were met.

Maratha quota stir descends into violence as homes of NCP leaders are torched

The raging Maratha quota agitation veered dangerously towards arson and vandalism on Monday, with agitators torching the homes and offices of two elected representatives from Beed district who are members of rival Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) factions.

CM Eknath Shinde, scrambling to break the quota deadlock, said that the Maratha reservation movement was losing direction. Quota activist Manoj Jarange-Patil, enfeebled by days of fasting is standing by his demands.

We have lost our sense of humour in public life, CJI observes in Raghav Chadha ‘indefinite suspension’ case hearing

Chief Justice of India D.Y. Chandrachud on Monday commented on the “death of sense of humour in public life” while questioning the “indefinite suspension” slapped on Raghav Chadha, Rajya Sabha member from the Aam Aadmi Party, for his casual quip to the media.

A reason for suspending Mr. Chadha for breach of privilege was his remark at a press conference that he had sent “birthday invitation cards” to other members to join a select committee for the GNCTD (Amendment) Bill 2023. Mr. Chadha was accused of inviting these members without taking their consent.

Joe Biden signs sweeping order to regulate AI in U.S, days before Sunak’s AI safety summit

U.S. President Joe Biden, on Monday, signed an executive order to enable wide-ranging regulation of artificial intelligence (AI). Mr Biden’s order comes days before U.K. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s AI Safety Summit in Bletchley Park, as countries race to keep up with rapidly evolving AI technology.

Delhi excise policy scam | SC dismisses bail plea of ex-Deputy CM Sisodia facing corruption, money laundering charges

The Supreme Court on Monday dismissed a plea for bail filed by former Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia, who is facing money laundering and corruption charges in the liquor policy ‘scam’ case.

A Bench headed by Justice Sanjiv Khanna, while denying bail, upheld Mr. Sisodia’s right to a speedy trial. It noted that the prosecution has already assured the court that the trial would be concluded in six to eight months.

AFG vs SL | Farooqi on fire as Afghanistan keeps itself in the hunt for semifinal berth

At the start of the chase, the Afghanistan dug-out had split the target of 242 into phases of 10 overs each on its whiteboard. The last row stated ‘48 242’, the coaching staff asking its in-form batting group to cross the line comfortably. And the batters did not disappoint.

Despite falling behind the asking rate at the midway stage, the middle-order ensured that the Afghans got over the finish line well before the target that was set by the coaching group.