Ensure roads are stray cattle, encroachment-free, SC tells civic bodies

The Supreme Court ordered states and union territories to clear public spaces of stray cattle and illegal encroachments, citing alarming conditions. Justices Amanullah and Mahadevan criticized civic bodies for non-compliance. The ruling, stemming from a Tamil Nadu case, applies nationally to ensure adherence to building bye-laws and prevent hazards posed by illegal constructions, particularly in cities like Delhi and Gurugram.

FIR filed in Ghaziabad as 3 women beaten over ‘cow slaughter’ claim

Police in Ghaziabad filed an FIR against three individuals linked to the Hindu Raksha Dal for assaulting three women who were allegedly taking a stray cow home. The women, including a 31-year-old complainant, reported injuries and threats during the attack. The incident, stemming from suspicions of cow slaughter, is under investigation, with videos collected as evidence.

UP orders action on illegal groundwater extraction in Gautam Budh Nagar

The Uttar Pradesh groundwater department has mandated an investigation into illegal groundwater extraction at construction sites in Noida and Greater Noida, responding to an NGT directive. Complaints allege excessive extraction by builders and industries, contributing to local depletion. The NGT previously instructed the department to verify and act on such complaints under the 2019 regulation.

Solid waste management: SC seeks rules for compensation

The Supreme Court has mandated the Centre to establish structured guidelines for imposing compensation for violations of the Solid Waste Management Rules, ensuring clarity and certainty in punitive actions. Aiming for effective implementation, the court highlighted the need for a restitutionary compensatory framework based on eight guiding principles from judicial precedents. The initiative seeks to institutionalize solid waste management in India.

Noida: Work begins on 530m skywalk in Sector 62

The Noida authority has commenced construction of a 530-meter skywalk at the Model Town crossing in Sector 62 to enhance pedestrian safety and reduce jaywalking at this busy intersection. Estimated to cost ₹40 crore, it will feature access points, integrate with existing infrastructure, and alleviate traffic issues for daily pedestrians, whose numbers exceed 50,000.

3,276 Samagra Shiksha staff get one-time appointment relief

The Maharashtra government has authorized the appointment of 3,276 long-serving contractual employees from the Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan to supernumerary posts equivalent to regular positions, providing pay scale relief for those with over a decade of service. This one-time measure follows a cabinet decision and aims to address their longstanding demands, though it doesn't ensure regularization or retrospective benefits. These positions will expire upon retirement or resignation, and future staffing will rely on outsourcing.

Cities generating more sewage than they can treat: Parl panel report

India’s cities face a significant sewage treatment crisis, generating 52,644 million litres per day against a capacity of just 31,885 MLD, with a shortfall exceeding 20,700 MLD. A parliamentary report highlights inadequate treatment, poor infrastructure, and a reliance on subpar septage systems. Despite investments, urban sanitation remains severely challenged, with many states reporting limited treatment capacity and poor compliance with standards.

UPPSC to install signal jammers in every exam room to curb cheating

To enhance transparency and prevent cheating in recruitment exams, the Uttar Pradesh Public Service Commission (UPPSC) will install signal jammers and strengthen candidate verification via Aadhaar linkage. New online systems for application scrutiny and exam evaluation aim to streamline processes. An updated merit system adjusts weightage for interviews and written exams while seeking additional staff to manage growing demands.

NGT notice to pharma manufacturing unit over pollution at Solan plant

The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has issued a notice to Kiinvan Pvt. Ltd. over alleged environmental violations at its Himachal Pradesh facility, including incorrect claims made for Environmental Clearance and illegal discharges into Chikni Khad. Despite a past clean chit from the local pollution board, the case raises serious compliance issues, with a hearing set for October 12, 2026.

Operation Trishul: India brought back 274 fugitives since 2019, says govt

India's national security strategy has successfully brought back 274 fugitives from 36 countries since 2019, with an expected increase this year due to a concerted war on drugs and a three-year operational roadmap. Officials note advancements in surveillance technology and international cooperation have played key roles, contrasting sharply with previous efforts under the UPA regime.

Three killed in twin road mishaps in Himachal

Three people died, and a woman was injured in two separate road accidents in Himachal Pradesh. The first incident involved a car falling into a gorge near Sirmaur, resulting in two fatalities and one serious injury. The second accident in Kangra claimed the life of a revenue department employee, Pradeep Kumar. Police investigations are ongoing.

Court demands CBI's response on 3 accused for lie-detector test in NEET leak

A fast-track court hearing the NEET-UG 2026 paper leak case requested the CBI's response to three accused seeking lie detector and brain mapping tests to assist in the investigation. The court, now presided over by judge Ajay Gupta, has adjourned further proceedings to August 6, following the transfer of judge Anu Grover Baliga. The case emerged after the National Testing Agency canceled the May 3 exam due to leak allegations.

Downpour drenches Lucknow; orange alert for 12 UP districts

Lucknow has experienced continuous rainfall, totaling 40.2 mm on Tuesday, with forecasts indicating intensified monsoon activity in Uttar Pradesh for the next few days, prompting an orange alert in 12 districts. Rainfall has alleviated the rain deficit in Lucknow to 34%, yet over half of UP faces below-average precipitation due to ongoing El Niño conditions, affecting the monsoon season.

Punjab gets 879 new polling stations after rationalisation

The Election Commission of India has increased Punjab's polling stations from 24,453 to 25,332 as part of the Special Intensive Revision 2026, enhancing voter facilitation and transparency. Successful enumeration saw over 1.93 million citizens submit forms. The finalized electoral roll will be published on October 12, with claims and objections accepted until October 8. This initiative aims to streamline the voting process.

Andhra liquor scam: Key accused arrested after return from Dubai

The Andhra Pradesh Police’s special investigation team (SIT) has arrested Eshwar Kiran Kumar Reddy, a key accused in a significant liquor scam from the previous YSR Congress government, after he returned from Dubai. Reddy is charged with creating shell companies to divert kickbacks. This marks 12 arrests in the case, which involves high-level corruption and laundering.

IDFC funds diversion case: Jailed businessman Wadhwa found lounging in Chandigarh’s Sector-17 hotel

Businessman Vikram Wadhwa, jailed for allegedly diverting ₹657 crore from government accounts, was caught at a Sector 17 hotel while attempting to escape after luring police officials. Arrested with his sons and two police personnel, he faces multiple charges. Originally a caretaker, Wadhwa amassed significant assets since relocating to the tricity in the 1990s.

Meerut athletics body tightens anti-doping efforts

In an effort to combat doping at the grassroots level, the Meerut District Athletics Association (MDAA) enforces a strict no-needle policy, conducting bag checks and surprise inspections during competitions. Dedicated volunteers prevent the entry of syringes and banned drugs while raising awareness among athletes. These measures aim to protect younger competitors, despite the formal authority resting with recognized anti-doping agencies.

Government distances itself from Hasina presser

The Indian government disassociated itself from Sheikh Hasina's virtual news conference on August 5, stating it has no involvement in the event organized by a private entity and does not endorse views expressed there, as reiterated by external affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal. The context follows concerns raised by Bangladeshi officials regarding potential impacts on bilateral relations. Hasina, exiled since 2024 after her government’s collapse, plans to return to Bangladesh by December amidst ongoing legal challenges.

Punjab polls: Cong won’t declare CM face, says Baghel

Punjab Congress in-charge Bhupesh Baghel announced that no chief ministerial face will be presented in upcoming state assembly elections amid ongoing factional protests led by Charanjit Singh Channi's supporters. He emphasized unity among senior leaders ahead of Rahul Gandhi's visit while addressing party workers in Ferozepur. Internal disagreements are normal, he argued. Background tensions arose after retaining Amarinder Singh Raja Warring as leader and Channi as campaign chair.

A tale of two Kashmirs: As J&K rises, PoK sinks deeper into crisis

The contrasting realities of Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) highlight a stark divergence in economic prospects. J&K thrives with massive state investment, projected GDP growth to $30 billion by 2025, and a revitalized infrastructure, while PoK suffers chronic stagnation, exploitative resource extraction, and civic unrest. This disparity stems from differing strategic approaches to regional development and governance.

One homoeopath registers under MMC amid allopathic doctors pushback

Maharashtra has become the first state to allow homoeopaths to register for dispensing allopathy medicines, with Dr Neha Siddharth Pawar being the first to register, marking a significant milestone. The decision has sparked protests from allopathic doctors, who demand a halt to this process until a regulatory framework is established to ensure patient safety and medical standards.

State govt orders audit of Siddhivinayak trust accounts

MUMBAI: The Maharashtra government has initiated a five-year audit of the Shree Siddhivinayak Temple Trust following theft allegations of ₹18 crore in donations, as discussed between temple officials and Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde. Accusations arose from MNS chief Raj Thackeray, claiming insider involvement, prompting temple authorities to enhance security measures since discovering cash theft in March.

‘Goongi Gudiya’ jibe at Sunetra Pawar sparks political row

Emotions escalated among NCP and Mahayuti leaders after Congress referred to Deputy Chief Minister Sunetra Pawar as ‘Goongi Gudiya’. This remark, echoing Indira Gandhi’s criticism, sparked accusations of misogyny, prompting protests. NCP’s Dhananjay Munde defended Pawar's commitment amid personal grief, while Congress defended its statement, framing it as a critique of her silence on critical issues.

Fake docus to invite admission cancellation, legal action: CET Cell

Students submitting false or misleading documents during the Maharashtra CET Cell's Centralised Admission Process for 2026-27 risk immediate admission cancellation and legal action, as per a directive issued on August 4. Institutions must verify documents before confirming admissions, with potential penalties for non-compliance, ensuring a transparent admission process for all applicants, including those under reservation categories.

BMW plays Spider-Man ads on car screens and owners are not happy

BMW's in-car ads for the new Spider-Man movie have drawn widespread criticism from consumers and experts alike, sparking concerns over driver safety and privacy. Critics argue that these ads undermine the luxury experience associated with BMW. Launched on July 27, the campaign contradicts BMW’s previous stance on keeping cars as “private spaces.”

State proposes Thane-Diva metro via Mumbra, Kalwa

The Maharashtra government has proposed a metro corridor linking Thane, Kalwa, Mumbra, and Diva, appointing an agency to complete a feasibility study and Detailed Project Report within six months, aiming to enhance connectivity for nearly three lakh residents currently reliant on overcrowded trains. This new corridor will integrate with significant rail lines, easing transport in the region.

Were Perez Hilton's kids at home during horrific TikTok live? What we know

A disturbing TikTok live featuring celebrity blogger Perez Hilton, where he allegedly harmed himself, triggered multiple emergency calls to Miami police. Officials confirmed Hilton was alone and chose to "tactically disengage." Social media posts indicate his children were not present during the incident, raising questions about their wellbeing. The situation remains under investigation.

Employment generation slowed under VB-G Ram G

Employment under the Centre's rural jobs scheme has sharply declined, generating 703.2 million persondays by July 31, a 34% drop from 1.07 billion last year. This slowdown coincides with the transition to the Viksit Bharat–Guarantee for Rozgar and Aajeevika Mission (VB-G RAM G) amid rainfall deficits impacting states like Bihar and UP. The Centre asserts demand-driven programs are still functioning.

Punjab: Sanitation workers call off protest in Barnala

Sanitation workers in Barnala ended their strike over job regularization and salary hikes after an agreement with the state government, which will ensure their demands are met. The strike, ongoing since July 8, disrupted sanitation services statewide. The protest escalated on July 22, leading to a clash with police that injured 22 individuals, prompting government accountability measures.

Malabar Hill’s Ridge Apartment set for redevelopment

Ridge Apartment, a 53-year-old building in Malabar Hill, Mumbai, is set for redevelopment into a high-rise after signing an agreement with Oberoi Realty. Residents will receive new apartments and monetary compensation during transition. This project joins others in the area undergoing similar renovations, enhancing the upscale neighborhood's housing landscape and offering substantial benefits to existing residents.