Nair Hospital to get city’s first dedicated disaster management ward

Dr BYL Nair Hospital in Mumbai will establish the city’s first dedicated disaster management ward, set to open in six months with 21 beds to handle mass emergencies. Equipped for both natural and man-made disasters, it includes patient decontamination and rapid lab testing. This ward aims to improve emergency response and streamline patient transfers, enhancing hospital services amid an expansion project.

Sunset clause for reappointment likely in 130th amendment bill to safeguard lawmakers’ acquittal

The Joint Committee on the Constitution amendment bill to remove ministers is poised to recommend a sunset provision allowing reappointment after prosecution delays. Led by BJP lawmaker Aparajita Sarangi, the panel will make key recommendations, addressing concerns about accountability and misuse. The government's intent has faced scrutiny amid Opposition protests regarding potential political destabilization. The amendments aim to reinforce public trust in governance.

Two months on, Panchkula MC yet to elect mayor’s deputies

Panchkula has not yet elected its senior deputy mayor and deputy mayor, more than two months after municipal election results were declared. The opposition criticizes the BJP government for undermining democratic rights of councillors. Mayor Sham Lal Bansal stated that election timing is at the chief minister's discretion, despite rules mandating timely elections. These posts have remained largely vacant since the corporation's inception.

‘Satluj’ row: Khalra’s wife urges Akal Takht to form ‘People’s Commission’

In response to the film ‘Satluj’ being blocked from streaming, Paramjit Kaur Khalra called on the Akal Takht to establish a People’s Commission to investigate disappearances and fake police encounters during the 1980s and 1990s in Punjab. Meanwhile, she criticized political parties for their roles in human rights violations and urged accountability for those responsible. Khalra, a human rights activist, has continued her advocacy following her husband's alleged murder in 1995, as she reflects on historical injustices faced by the Sikh community.

Supreme Court rejects 350 Bengal madrasah staffers’ claims of wage arrears over recruitment violations

The Supreme Court dismissed claims from nearly 350 West Bengal madrasah staff for salary regularization and arrears, ruling their recruitment violated state notifications. Examining 13 selected cases, justices found no grounds for interference and deemed the appointments detrimental. The court vacated interim protections, allowing the filling of sanctioned posts as per regulations. Background includes the MSC Act, 2008.

HSVP plot ‘Vivadon Se Samadhan Yojana’ extended till December

The Haryana government has extended the "Vivadon-se-samadhan yojana-2026" until December 31, 2026, benefiting approximately 5,085 eligible allottees with over ₹770 crore in rebates. The public welfare scheme addresses disputes over plot enhancement charges and now includes expanded eligibility for various plot types. All processes are digital, promoting transparency and ease of access for participants.

Why did a judge order Bill Belichick's daughter-in-law's arrest? Details

NFL coaching legend Bill Belichick resurfaces in the news after a judge issued an arrest warrant for his daughter-in-law, Jen Belichick, following her failure to appear in court for a speeding citation. The incident stems from a May traffic stop in North Carolina. Bill’s family dynamics have often drawn media spotlight, adding to his controversies.

ED gets nod to seek Spain’s help in ₹5,000-crore OctaFX probe

A special PMLA court in Mumbai has authorized the Enforcement Directorate (ED) to request assistance from Spain for enforcing asset attachments and gathering evidence in a ₹5,000-crore money laundering case linked to OctaFX. The ED claims Russian national Pavel Prozorov orchestrated operations from Barcelona, utilizing companies there. The court noted prior asset attachments in Spain worth over ₹41 crore.

‘Satluj’ row: SAD calls core committee meeting on July 16

The Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) convenes an emergency meeting on July 16 to tackle political unrest following the controversial digital release and quick removal of the film ‘Satluj’, based on human rights activist Jaswant Singh Khalra. SAD will strategize post-meeting to navigate evolving dynamics, as public screenings of the film spur further political discussions. The film faces scrutiny over selective narratives.

Mohali: Nine years on, Gurugram homebuyer wins possession order against builder

The District Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission ordered ATS Estates to deliver a Dera Bassi flat within two months to a buyer who paid nearly half the cost nine years ago. The builder must also pay 9% interest on ₹27.74 lakh and ₹2.5 lakh for harassment. The buyer's complaint cited undelivered possession despite assurances.

Builder-politician’s son booked after 51-year-old man killed in hit-and-run

A 51-year-old Ulhasnagar furniture market worker, Devendra Singh Rajput, was killed and his son injured when their scooter was allegedly struck by Avinash Mutha, son of a local politician, builder, and jeweller, who was speeding in his car. Mutha fled but was later apprehended; police continue their investigation into the incident.

Kharif sowing trails last year’s pace despite rainfall revival in early July

Kharif sowing in India lagged 16% behind last year, despite improved rainfall in early July, with farmers having sown 350.85 lakh hectares by July 10. Experts warn of potential recovery being short-lived, as monsoon activity weakened again, raising concerns over delays in sowing in key regions. Cumulative rainfall deficits remain high, particularly affecting crucial agricultural zones.

Aarika Srivastav’s mother: No family should have to suffer this kind of loss

Aarika Srivastav, a 14-year-old girl, died on May 17 from severe injuries after a tree fell on her autorickshaw, leaving her mother, Binal, devastated and questioning tree maintenance in Mumbai. Binal, haunted by regrets from the tragic day, emphasizes the need for accountability to prevent similar losses. Aarika dreamed of becoming an aerospace engineer, reflecting extraordinary ambition and kindness.

SC orders SIT probe into 2023 murder case against BJP MLA

The Supreme Court has ordered the formation of a three-member special investigation team (SIT) to investigate murder allegations against BJP MLA Arvind Pateriya, involving the driver of Congress candidate Salman Khan, killed during the 2023 Madhya Pradesh assembly elections. The SIT must complete its investigation within two months, considering eyewitness affidavits and existing case records. Khan’s widow, represented by senior advocate Prashant Bhushan, expressed dissatisfaction with the ongoing probe, prompting the court's intervention.

BJP vs TMC in Bengal over Kolkata airport restricting entry into mosque

The Kolkata airport authority's restriction on outsider access to the historic Gouripur Jama Masjid has sparked a political dispute, with BJP's Suvendu Adhikari supporting it for national security, while TMC's Saugata Roy opposes the abrupt decision. Previously, limited access was granted for decades, raising concerns from community leaders about unfair treatment and lack of consultation amid ongoing security discussions.

Why an Elkunchwar play waited 20 years to be staged

After two decades of anticipation, Mahesh Elkunchwar's elusive play 'Eka Natacha Mrityu' (ENM) has its first production, directed by Atul Pethe and starring Abhay Mahajan. The play, exploring themes of identity and mortality, premiered in Pune to critical acclaim from Elkunchwar. Unlike conventional theatre, it invites introspective engagement, showcasing the evolving landscape of Marathi theatre.

Refund Sector-7 man over delayed water connection: Panel to MC

The District Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission-II, Chandigarh ordered the UT municipal corporation to refund ₹2,237 and pay ₹10,000 in compensation to Geeta Kapoor for failing to provide a feasible water connection. Despite repeated requests, the refund was delayed for nearly two years, highlighting a deficiency in service. Background: Kapoor's application in 2024 was hindered by technical issues.

Over 90% of Lucknow’s ITMS traffic fines remain unpaid despite 13 lakh e-challans

Lucknow’s AI-powered traffic enforcement system has issued over Rs 145 crore in e-challans since FY 2022-23, but more than 90% remains unpaid, raising concerns about recovery effectiveness. Despite generating over 30,000 monthly fines and employing extensive surveillance, enforcement action has faltered due to delays in court referrals, exacerbating the backlog of violations and unpaid penalties.

Manager siphons off 6.1kg gold from jewellery firm

A South Mumbai jewellery firm's manager, Mitesh Kothari, allegedly misappropriated 6.12kg of gold worth ₹5.8 crore, leading to police action. Kothari, employed for 15 years, was entrusted with locker keys and handling transactions. Suspicion arose during a business trip, revealing significant discrepancies in the firm's accounts. Police are currently searching for him under criminal breach of trust.

NMMT begins biggest fleet expansion in eight years

Navi Mumbai Municipal Transport (NMMT) has launched 150 new CNG buses, marking its first expansion in eight years to meet rising commuter demand, particularly with the upcoming Navi Mumbai International Airport. With 65 buses already delivered, the focus will be on enhancing service frequency. Officials urge financial strategies, including commercial land development, to support further improvements and sustainability.

Who is Dominic Rodolico? Man arrested for murdering Glendale woman Arianna Jones

Arianna Bailey Jones, 21, was found dead after being reported missing from her Glendale, Arizona apartment. Dominic Scot-Glen Rodolico, 24, is charged with her murder, allegedly planning the crime after meeting her through social media. Jones’ family reported concerns on July 7, and remains believed to be hers were discovered in a shallow grave.

Monsoon to revive in UP from weekend after brief lull

The southwest monsoon will return to Uttar Pradesh this weekend, driven by a new low-pressure area expected to develop around Thursday. Rainfall will begin in eastern districts before spreading westward, though its intensity is anticipated to be lower than last week. Recently, 58 districts saw no rain due to a weakening depression over the Bay of Bengal, leaving many areas in deficit.

UP transformed from ‘BIMARU’ state into India’s growth engine: Yogi

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath inaugurated the Lucknow-Kanpur Greenfield Expressway, emphasizing the state's transformation into India's "growth engine." He attributed this to Prime Minister Modi’s 2014 development vision, highlighting significant infrastructure advancements such as metro networks and the upcoming Noida International Airport. The expressway aims to enhance connectivity and foster economic growth in the region.

Entry into India sans papers: Ex-US soldier with 70-country travel history sent to judicial custody

Uttar Pradesh Police arrested American national Jordan Brown for allegedly entering India without valid travel documents and attempting to cross into Nepal unlawfully. Brown, an ex-US soldier, lacks suspicious links. Authorities are verifying his claims and examining electronic devices while investigating his reasons for border crossing. His immigration status raises questions, but no immediate security threats have emerged.

Mohali: Farmers’ rally triggers traffic snarls during rush hour

Commuters in Mohali faced severe traffic disruptions Monday morning due to a farmers' protest organized by the Bharatiya Kisan Union (Rajewal) against potential duty-free trade agreements with the US. Major roads connecting Chandigarh and the airport became heavily congested despite police presence. This resulted in delayed journeys for many, with notable congestion near Gopal Sweets and Kharar bus stand.

Haryana BJP launches cleanliness drive ahead of PM’s visit

BJP state president Archana Gupta emphasized that cleanliness is a symbol of responsibility and values, aligning with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s “Clean India - Healthy India” initiative, during a cleanliness drive at HUDA Ground in Karnal. A campaign until July 19 aims to raise awareness and foster public participation. Mayor Renu Bala Gupta highlighted collective municipal efforts for a cleaner city.

PM to launch multiple health, road projects in Chandigarh on July 17

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will lay the foundation stone for the ₹1,878-crore Zirakpur bypass road and inaugurate the ₹1,525.3-crore Mohali IT City–Kurali Expressway during his July 17 visit to Chandigarh. He will also launch three ₹1,200-crore health facilities at PGIMER, enhancing critical care and maternal services, following his last visit in December 2024 for law reviews.

Haryana cracks whip on 22 polluting stone crushers

The Haryana State Pollution Control Board is moving to attach properties of 22 stone crushing units in Mahendragarh that owe over ₹1.78 crore in environmental compensation for pollution violations, following National Green Tribunal directions. Previously, 67 units paid ₹3.61 crore, while others shut down. The collected funds will support environmental restoration efforts in the region.

Chandigarh: Claiming to be judge’s son, man ‘assaults’ student, ‘brandishes pistol’ at Sector-7 club

A youth, Aniket Gupta, claiming to be a judge's son, brutally assaulted student Dhruv Trehan and brandished a gun at a club in Sector 7 early Sunday, according to police. Gupta and his accomplices threatened the club owner and caused damage to parked cars while fleeing. An FIR has been filed, but no arrests have been made yet.

From 11 surgeries to the English Channel: Geeta’s unstoppable journey

Geeta Malusare, 21, completed the English Channel swim in 14 hours and 31 minutes, overcoming severe setbacks, including a jellyfish sting and multiple surgeries. Known as India’s “Mermaid,” Geeta’s journey highlights resilience as she trains for further challenges, including the “Queen of Ocean” title, despite facing financial hurdles and past injuries. Her story exemplifies triumph over adversity.