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.

Factory owner bites off supplier’s finger over ₹77k dues

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.

Silk pillowcase to brushing wet hair: Alia's hairstylist rates haircare habits

Bollywood hairstylist Amit Thakur evaluates popular haircare habits, revealing that sleeping with wet hair leads to scalp issues (1/10), while double shampooing effectively cleanses (9/10). He warns against brushing wet hair (0/10) and endorses scalp massage (8/10) and regular trims (10/10) for healthier hair. Silk pillowcases are also beneficial (8/10). The insights are based on user-generated content.

Punjab: Four juveniles among 9 held as cops bust two ISI-backed terror modules

On Tuesday, police dismantled two ISI-backed terror modules, arresting nine suspects, including four juveniles, and seizing three pistols, nine cartridges, and four petrol bombs. The accused, linked to ISI handlers, were reportedly tasked with recruiting locals and surveilling security sites. Investigations revealed connections through jail inmates involving financing for surveillance cameras near railway tracks, aiding further inquiries into broader terror networks.

State tells schools to hold language camp, teachers object

The Maharashtra government has mandated a seven-day ‘Indian Language Summer Camp’ for schools in August, focusing on multilingual learning. The directive, criticized by teachers for adding to their workload, allows schools to choose from 121 languages. Critics argue it burdens students and should be voluntary. The initiative, part of Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat, aims to encourage cultural engagement.

1,500 e-buses to revive 125 BEST bus routes

The Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport (BEST) Committee has approved the procurement of 1,500 electric buses under the PM E-Drive scheme to revive 100-125 discontinued routes, enhancing connectivity to metro stations. The phased rollout will start after Diwali, aiming to support the city’s goal of 10,000 operational buses by 2027, alongside plans for 5,000 self-owned buses.

Glass in mid-day meal: FDA cancels licence of Ghatkopar contractor

The FDA has revoked the licence of Shruti Mahila Industrial Producers Co-operative Society Limited after glass shards were discovered in mid-day meals at a Ghatkopar school, prompting immediate action due to serious food safety violations. The organization previously supplied meals to over 3,000 students daily. Following the incident, a new supplier improved food quality, restoring confidence among parents and students.

Mumbai police clerks suspended for siphoning off ₹6.5 cr via ghost salary accounts

Mumbai police suspended two staff members, Vijaya Ashok Chavan and Amol Arunrao Meshram, for allegedly creating fake service IDs and misappropriating nearly ₹6.5 crore from nonexistent police personnel's salary accounts between 2019 and 2020. Investigators found collusion and fabricated records during a transition to a new salary portal, prompting a probe into the ghost employees' identities and bank accounts.

Chandigarh: High court seeks report on pendency of cases before DRT-III

The Punjab and Haryana High Court has ordered Debt Recovery Tribunal (DRT)-III to report on cases with reserved orders pending for over three months, following a petition by Jairath Dyeing and Finishing Mills regarding a four-month delay since their order was reserved. The court emphasized the need for timely judgments, reflecting concerns over frequent delays at DRT-III.

Bar on construction around Juhu wireless station relaxed

The Indian Ministry of Defence has amended construction restrictions around the Juhu wireless station, reducing the prohibited area from 500 yards to 100 meters. This change will allow redevelopment of nearly 200 buildings that were previously stalled. Residents and local leaders express relief after years of struggle, although procedural challenges remain before redevelopment can commence.

'Political party not the answer': Key meet in Maha to discuss CJP's future

The Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) will not enter electoral politics but aims to engage Gen Z in social issues. Founder Abhijeet Dipke announced a two-day meeting to strategize and expand grassroots outreach following recent protests against NEET irregularities. CJP seeks to promote public accountability through a movement focused on youth-centric grievances rather than forming a new political party. Formed amidst recent protests, CJP emphasizes grassroots activism to address unvoiced concerns.

Gujarat simplifies passport police verification, ends mandatory station visits

Gujarat Police has streamlined the passport verification process, focusing only on applicants' citizenship and criminal records, eliminating the need for police station visits. The director general emphasized transparency in the new approach, allowing home visits only in exceptional cases. Background checks will still be conducted using official documents, with final decisions resting with the Regional Passport Office.

ED to get its own office in BKC, agency chief performs ‘bhoomi pujan’

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) will establish a 14-storeyed office complex in Bandra Kurla Complex, expected to be completed in four-and-a-half years at a cost of ₹400 crore. The plot was leased in March 2023, enabling the ED to consolidate operations currently spread across three sites. This move follows a request for a dedicated office made in April 2022.