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The accused Kenneth was arrested on June 24. (HT PHOTO)

Police seeks AI chat logs to aid triple murder probe

Investigators in the KR Puram triple murder case are seeking records from Google regarding conversations between the prime suspect, Kenneth, and the AI chatbot Gemini, where he allegedly discussed violence and crime planning. After the murder of Shwetha's family, financial motives emerged, as the couple faced distress from a failed business venture. Shwetha and Kenneth were arrested shortly after fleeing to Puducherry.

The matter has now been referred to the Chief Justice for consideration by a third judge. (For representation)

‘Bulldozer justice’: Allahabad high court split on two-year bar on demolitions

The Allahabad High Court delivered a split verdict on "bulldozer justice," with one judge proposing a two-year limit on demolitions linked to FIRs, while the other rejected a blanket injunction. The case, involving a family facing demolition post-FIR, highlights concerns over retributive state action. The Chief Justice will consider two legal questions stemming from the disagreement.

NCP launches ‘Janseva Saptaha’ on Ajit Pawar’s birth anniversary

NCP launches ‘Janseva Saptaha’ on Ajit Pawar’s birth anniversary

Amid merger speculations within rival factions of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), Sunetra Pawar will lead a series of commemorative programs for her late husband Ajit Pawar on July 22, marking the first anniversary of his death. The NCP’s ‘Janseva Saptaha’ will include health initiatives and environmental drives, reinforcing Sunetra's leadership and her husband’s legacy.

Minor killed in sickle attack by group in Katraj; four detained

Minor killed in sickle attack by group in Katraj; four detained

A 17-year-old boy was killed in Katraj after being attacked with sickles by a group of 7 to 8 assailants. Four juveniles have been detained, with a search ongoing for the others. The attack, linked to prior enmity, occurred at night as the victim collected a repaired phone. Police investigate previous threats against him.

The Supreme Court asked her to consider surrendering, saying she had "two choices", while hearing the Meghalaya government's challenge to the High Court order granting her bail in the Raja Raghuvanshi murder case.

'Either surrender or defend': SC to Meghalaya murder accused Sonam Raghuvanshi

The Supreme Court has urged Sonam Raghuvanshi, currently on bail for allegedly murdering her husband during their honeymoon in 2025, to consider surrendering within two days or defend her bail. The Meghalaya government contested her bail, citing procedural errors by the police. A bench suggested she explore her options before the trial progresses.

New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani said Tuesday that his administration cannot legally arrest Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu YouTube/Handout via REUTERS

Zohran Mamdani urges the feds to arrest Benjamin Netanyahu: ‘I call on them…'

An Israeli drone strike in Gaza has killed six, including a nine-year-old girl, as New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani calls for the U.S. to enforce an ICC arrest warrant for Israeli PM Netanyahu, accused of war crimes. Though Mamdani lacks legal authority to act, he urges federal action. Israel denies charges and rejects ICC jurisdiction.

Sewage discharge from areas around Ramgarh village and severe waterlogging continue to affect nearby residential pockets during rains. (Parveen Kumar/HT)

Concern for Gurugram: Sector 67 locals flag garbage, roads, sewage crisis

Residents of Sector 67 face ongoing civic issues, including illegal garbage dumping, poor roads, and sewage overflow, impacting sanitation and safety. Delayed waste collection exacerbates these conditions, with an unattended dumping site near schools posing health risks. Despite multiple complaints, the Municipal Corporation of Gurugram has failed to take action. Background efforts to develop infrastructure remain slow, worsening the community's living conditions.

Wangchuk shifted to Medanta Hospital after Delhi HC order

Wangchuk shifted to Medanta Hospital after Delhi HC order

The Delhi High Court has authorized activist Sonam Wangchuk's transfer from Safdarjung Hospital to Medanta Hospital in Gurugram, emphasizing this decision upholds his constitutional rights under Articles 19 and 21. The court mandated that a panel of doctors oversee his treatment. Wangchuk has been on hunger strike for over 20 days protesting NEET examination irregularities.

In a statement, Hooda condemned the lathi-charge against students protesting against the paper leak in Delhi. (HT File)

Hooda comes out in support of students, farmers

Former Haryana chief minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda has voiced support for protesting farmers and students, condemning police violence against student demonstrators in Delhi regarding a paper leak. Hooda urged the government to address farmers’ demands, highlighting unfulfilled promises on minimum support prices. Meanwhile, around 30 Haryana Congress leaders were detained while protesting for student rights in Chandigarh.

The impact was so severe that despite airbags deploying, Divansh suffered extensive brain trauma, doctors said. (HT)

Sohna chowk crash victim, 20, succumbs to injuries in Gurugram

A 20-year-old man, Divansh Chaddha, succumbed to critical injuries after a speeding Thar crashed into his car on July 17 in Gurugram. His cousin remains in critical condition. Police are enhancing the FIR to include stricter charges against the allegedly intoxicated driver. Divansh's mother calls for tougher penalties for reckless driving. The incident highlights urgent safety concerns.

HVPNL clears land transfer for Gurugram Metro depot in Sec 33

Haryana Vidyut Prasaran Nigam Limited has approved transferring 400 square metres of land in Sector 33 to Gurugram Metro Rail Limited for the construction of a metro depot, contingent upon relocating existing electrical equipment. This project is crucial for urban infrastructure, with ongoing construction efforts and a ₹409 crore tender process underway. Background developments include market relocations and overcoming substation hurdles for metro corridor completion.

Parliament was informed that the 28.5 km Gurugram metro project achieved 3.3% physical progress up to June 2026. (HT)

Gurugram Metro project achieved 3.3% progress thus far: GMRL

Gurugram Metro Rail Ltd (GMRL) plans to issue a tender for the Phase 2 civil construction of the Gurugram metro project, valued at approximately ₹1,600 crore, in August, pending World Bank approval. Currently, only 3.3% of the 28.5 km project is complete. First phase work has reached 11% progress since its inception last December.

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SIT formed to probe land grab charges against Art of Living Foundation

The state government has formed a special investigation team (SIT) to probe alleged encroachments by the Art of Living Foundation on over 290 acres of government land in Bengaluru South taluk. The SIT, led by senior IAS officer Amlan Aditya Biswas, will verify lease documents and perform fresh surveys following a high court order stemming from a public interest litigation. Background claims include systematic encroachments and misuse of leased land for unauthorized purposes.

Officials said the corridor’s design will remain undecided until plans for the Yamuna riverfront project are finalised.

City’s elevated Ring Rd project clashes with Centre’s park plan

Delhi's ₹11,785 crore elevated Ring Road project faces setbacks due to alignment conflicts with the Central government's Navbharat Udyan plan on the Yamuna bank. A senior official stated that final decisions on the Ring Road’s design will only follow the Udyan's design completion. This challenge highlights the need for coordination among transportation infrastructure projects, including the upcoming Delhi Karnal RRTS corridor.

Police trace  <span class='webrupee'>₹</span>11.5 crore cyber fraud to 3 bank accounts

Police trace 11.5 crore cyber fraud to 3 bank accounts

NAVI MUMBAI: An FIR has been filed against a cybercrime syndicate linked to bank accounts involved in online frauds totaling nearly ₹11.5 crore, connected to about 1,450 complaints nationwide. Investigators traced illicit fund transfers and identified crucial account roles within the syndicate operation. The investigation revealed complex money-laundering tactics was employed from November 2025 to February 2026.

According to the government, surveys have been completed for 12,232 properties across 48 villages, under an agreement with the Survey of India. Of these, 8,423 properties, or nearly 69%, are dispute-free and are eligible for Smart Property Cards. (Representative photo)

Delhi govt to start issuing QR smart cards for ‘lal dora’ properties

The Delhi government will issue QR-enabled Smart Property Cards for properties in “lal dora” and “abadi” villages as part of the Svamitva scheme, with surveys completed for 12,232 properties across 48 villages. Nearly 69% are dispute-free and eligible. The initiative aims to modernize property records, enhancing transparency and security by leveraging technology.

The panel will submit a detailed report on the Aravalli hills and ranges, covering all its issues, including its definition, by August 31. (HT Archive)

SC panel on Aravallis seeks stakeholder inputs for final report on definition of range

The Supreme Court's High-Powered Committee on the Aravallis is soliciting input from stakeholders within 21 days to create a report by August 31, including a definition of the Aravalli hills. Activists stress the need for in-person consultations due to digital barriers affecting rural voices. Background includes a controversial 2025 definition that sparked concerns over mining impacts.

The amendment replaces the existing 14th Schedule with an updated version, listing all 250 MCD wards under the renamed zones.

Centre aligns MCD zones with Delhi’s new revenue district

The Centre has amended the Delhi Municipal Corporation Act to align MCD zones with updated revenue districts, enhancing coordination between civic and revenue authorities. The amendment, notified by the Home Affairs Ministry, renames 12 MCD zones and maps 250 wards accordingly. Chief Minister Rekha Gupta emphasized that this change would simplify public service access and improve scheme implementation. The amendment follows the creation of new administrative subdivisions in Delhi.

MP records 14 pc below-normal rainfall; Alirajpur worst hit at 78 pc deficit

MP records 14 pc below-normal rainfall; Alirajpur worst hit at 78 pc deficit

Indore, Madhya Pradesh, has experienced 14% below-normal rainfall this monsoon, with Alirajpur district facing a critical 78% deficit, severely impacting kharif crop sowing. The India Meteorological Department noted a total of 286.8 mm rainfall since June 1, contrasting with the expected 335.3 mm. Farmers are urged to consider resilient crops to counter inadequate rainfall.

“The committees aim to prevent waterlogging and ensure public safety through coordination among various departments,” Gupta said.

District-level panel formed to prevent waterlogging in city

The Delhi government has established district-level coordination committees (DLCCs) in all 13 districts to enhance collaboration among civic and government agencies for preventing waterlogging during monsoon. Heading these committees, district magistrates will oversee preparedness measures, monitor operations, and inspect flood-prone areas, ensuring public safety. This initiative follows directives from Chief Minister Rekha Gupta and aims to improve municipal response.

In its July 17 order, the NGT noted the poor pace of compliance and said the DJB had failed to take prompt action. (Hindustan Times)

NGT pulls up DJB over delay in regulating groundwater extraction in Paharganj

The National Green Tribunal criticized the Delhi Jal Board for inadequate regulation of groundwater extraction by Paharganj hotels and guest houses, with only 162 of 555 required piezometers installed. The DJB has been given four weeks to submit a new compliance report, with the next hearing set for September 3, 2026. The tribunal emphasized the DJB’s delayed actions.

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Navy to induct latest anti-submarine warfare vessel today

The Indian Navy will commission the second Mahe-class anti-submarine warfare shallow water craft, Malvan, in Kochi, emphasizing indigenisation and self-reliance goals by 2047. Constructed by Cochin Shipyard Limited with over 80% local content, it is equipped for anti-submarine operations and joins the fleet as the seventh Indian-made warship this year. Background details include the commissioning of INS Mahendragiri, enhancing naval capabilities amid rising regional tensions.

The blaze gutted two cars and two scooters parked in the building, while two cooking gas cylinders exploded on the top floor. A sub-inspector also suffered a leg injury during the rescue operation.

Nine rescued after fire engulfs west Delhi residential building

A fire erupted in a four-storey residential building in west Delhi’s Fateh Nagar early Tuesday, trapping occupants and injuring a police sub-inspector. Nine people were rescued, including an elderly couple. The fire, suspected to be caused by a short circuit, affected vehicles and triggered gas cylinder explosions. The incident highlights the challenges posed by narrow lanes for emergency services.

An Indian man in Canada compared office cultures and said better work-life balance kept many Indians abroad.

Indian man explains why Canada's work culture stands out. Video

An Indian IT professional in Canada, Rohit Gupta, has ignited a debate about work culture differences, asserting that immigrants prefer staying abroad for better work-life balance rather than cleaner air or food. Gupta highlights the respect for personal time and straightforward leave policies in Canada, contrasting it with pressure-filled environments in India. The discussion reflects broader immigration sentiments regarding workplace expectations.

“It’s unfortunate. Why should you seek suspension of conviction? Section 304 (IPC) is a serious offence,” the bench said. (Representative photo)

Delhi HC refuses to suspend conviction, sentence of Bihar MLA in fatal firing case

The Delhi High Court has denied the immediate suspension of BJP legislator Raju Kumar Singh's conviction for culpable homicide related to celebratory gunfire that killed a woman on New Year’s Eve 2018. A trial court sentenced him to four years and ordered ₹25 lakh compensation. The next hearing is set for July 23, 2023, amid concerns over gun culture.

A general view of the Supreme Court of India in New Delhi.

Supreme Court sets aside death penalty in 1996 samleti bus blast case

The Supreme Court emphasized the inviolable right to a fair trial, overturning Abdul Hameed's conviction and death sentence in the 1996 Samleti bus bomb blast case due to inadequate legal representation. Fourteen people died in the blast; Hameed, now facing a retrial, exemplifies procedural fairness in justice, ensuring no convictions currently exist from this case.

Veteran journalist and author Roopinder Singh with his newly launched book ‘Gurdwaras-Abodes of the Guru’. (HT Photo)

Chandigarh: ‘Gurdwara not a just place of worship, a place that welcomes all’

Roopinder Singh's new book, ‘Gurdwaras-Abodes of the Guru,’ explores gurdwaras as vital centers of history, faith, and community across various geographies. Unlike European churches, gurdwaras thrive on collective effort rather than individual patronage. The book emphasizes inclusivity and the universal human connection, while showcasing diverse gurdwara practices in places like the U.S. and Japan. Singh attributes his insights to his journalistic background and familial heritage in Sikh scholarship.

Youth dies after falling into gorge in Naneghat

Youth dies after falling into gorge in Naneghat

A 22-year-old man, Datta Vinayak Londhe, died after falling into a gorge at the Nanacha Angtha viewpoint in Pune on Monday. Search efforts involved police and rescue teams but were hampered by heavy rain and fog. Initial investigations indicate accidental death, as slip marks were found. Authorities urge tourists to follow safety guidelines in the monsoon.

A memorandum was also submitted to the commission demanding immediate rejection of the parallel distribution licence petition and dissolution of the expert committee constituted by the commission. (HT Photo for representation)

Parallel power distribution bid: Private power distribution could impose burden on farmers, households, says power engineers’ body

Power engineers and electricity employees rallied in Nuh to oppose a proposed parallel distribution license in Gurugram and Nuh. They demanded the rejection of Eleven Power Private Limited's application, arguing it would financially burden the public distribution system and harm farmers and small consumers. Concerns were raised about privatization undermining equitable electricity supply. The event emphasized the need for transparency from the Haryana Electricity Regulatory Commission.

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Govt nod to six new zonal narco bureau offices

The Centre has approved six new zonal offices of the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) in Port Blair, Dimapur, Aizawl, Shimla, Shillong, and Gangtok to combat drug smuggling. This expansion includes creating 568 new posts and a dedicated Directorate of Prosecution, as part of a strategy to achieve a drug-free India by 2047, emphasizing enhanced regional coordination.