Cong gears up for Rahul’s ‘Chhatron Ki Goonj’ in Pune, Fadnavis hits out

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi's ‘Chhatron Ki Goonj’ initiative in Pune is set for Saturday, attracting around 50,000 registered students. The police have granted permission with conditions to prevent offense to religious sentiments. Critics, including Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, suggest the initiative is limited to Congress-affiliated students, raising concerns about the authenticity of the dialogue. This event highlights ongoing political engagement in Maharashtra.

6 yrs on, Punjab sitting on enforcing law to regulate pvt health facilities

Despite 19 states implementing the Clinical Establishments Act to regulate private health facilities, Punjab lags behind, having only notified the legislation in October 2020 without establishing the required rules. The Act aims to improve care quality and curb malpractices, but the Punjab government cites ongoing consultations with private providers for delays, while the IMA opposes the law, fearing increased corruption.

Cops book two in forest land case after Rohit Pawar’s allegations

Raigad police have booked Gangadhar and Yashwant Biwalkar for allegedly selling forest land in Panvel without legal rights, following a complaint from assistant conservator Bhausaheb Javare. The FIR cites prior illegal land transfer allegations involving the Biwalkar family and local government officials, emphasizing the sale's illegitimacy under forestry laws. The case emerged after extensive advocacy from NCP (SP) leader Rohit Pawar.

Malabar Hill residents take BMC to court over ‘narrowing’ of Walkeshwar Road

The Malabar Hill Citizens Association has filed a PIL in the Bombay High Court against a BMC resolution reducing Walkeshwar Road’s width from 27.5 to 17 metres, allegedly to benefit a private developer. The contentious reduction compromises public interest, contradicting historical development plans, and the association had unsuccessfully sought remedies prior to legal action.

Civic workers’ strike:15 days on, Haryana towns stink under mounting garbage

A 15-day strike by Haryana's municipal sanitation, sewer, and fire staff has led to severe sanitation issues, with garbage accumulating in residential and public areas, raising health concerns. The strike, initiated due to unmet demands from a prior agreement, has disrupted waste collection across multiple towns. Despite ongoing dialogues, workers insist on written commitments before negotiations resume, highlighting significant unmet demands for job security and benefits.

Corporators seek data on BMC’s fogging, mosquito-control operations

Mumbai's BMC corporators are demanding accountability for the civic body's fogging and mosquito-control operations amid rising concerns over mosquito-borne diseases during the monsoon. During a Standing Committee meeting, members questioned the availability of machines and chemicals. Additional Municipal Commissioner Prajakta Lavangare pledged to provide a detailed report in response to the corporators' concerns.

HC flags ‘alarming’ inclusion of Dhobighat land in slum rehab scheme

The Bombay High Court expressed grave concern over the inclusion of a portion of Dhobi Ghat in a slum redevelopment scheme, emphasizing that valuable public land cannot be forcibly taken without proper rehabilitation. The court noted the site's historical use by licensed washermen, urging a review of the decision-making process regarding the redevelopment. The land, traditionally recognized and used since 1851, highlights enduring legal rights.

Margaret Qualley has fans baffled with ‘barefoot’ Chanel sandals on red carpet

The internet reacted negatively to Chanel's controversial barefoot sandals worn by Margaret Qualley at the premiere of her film, sparking a flurry of witty criticism and disbelief over the design's practicality. The shoes, featuring only a heel cap, left feet completely exposed. Qualley complemented the look with a stunning black dress by Chanel designer Matthieu Blazy.

RTO tests 1,430 drivers’ Marathi, issues notices to 422 for not knowing language

The Maharashtra government's enforcement of a new Marathi language requirement for taxi and autorickshaw drivers began with RTO inspections in Mumbai, where 1,430 vehicles were checked and 422 drivers received notices for lacking practical Marathi knowledge. The initiative aims to improve communication but has led to challenges in obtaining necessary language certificates, causing concern among drivers about income loss and compliance difficulties.

Taxi, auto fares to rise from next week

Taxi and autorickshaw fares in Mumbai will increase next week for the first time in 18 months, following a nearly 10% rise in fuel prices. Taxis will see a ₹2 increase to ₹33, while autos will rise by ₹1 to ₹27. This change, based on the Khatua Committee's recommendations, reflects rising operating costs and was approved after demands from driver unions.

Sena (UBT) to hold rally at Bandra ground to protect open spaces in city

Mumbai's Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Aaditya Thackeray has called for a 'Tiranga rally' on Sunday at the Neville D’Souza Football Ground to protest the transfer of open spaces to private entities, alleging corruption linked to Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. This issue surfaced in May 2026 when multiple plots, including the Bandra ground, were privatized.

BMC approves ₹702-cr pedestrian underpass linking metro, Worli promenade

Mumbai's Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has approved a ₹702.44 crore proposal for an underground pedestrian vestibule connecting the Nehru Science Centre Metro station to the Coastal Road’s Worli promenade. The 3.5-4-kilometer passage aims to enhance public transport access and improve pedestrian safety, leveraging the expertise of the Mumbai Metro Rail Corporation for construction. This initiative supports the city's transport infrastructure goals.

‘Next generation will forget what is maidani khel’: HC bars BMC from altering reservation of Bandra football ground

The Bombay High Court has prohibited the BMC from changing the reservation of Bandra's Neville D’Souza football ground from a playground to an exhibition center, criticizing the civic body for breaching its prior court assurances. The controversial site has a complex history, originally designated for trade in 1983 and leased to the MFA. The next hearing is set for September 18.

Longowal martyrdom day: Harsimrat exhorts Punjabis to get rid of ‘divisive forces’

Harsimrat Kaur Badal, a leader of the Shiromani Akali Dal, urged Punjabis to reject "divisive forces" threatening the state's youth during a conference honoring Sant Harchand Singh Longowal. Advocating for peace, communal harmony, and action against drugs, she criticized rival factions weakening SAD. Support for Longowal's legacy was echoed by other leaders at the event.

National green tribunal issues notice to Punjab pollution board over ₹149 crore unrecovered green fines

The National Green Tribunal has directed the Punjab Pollution Control Board to address its failure in recovering and utilizing ₹170.12 crore in environmental compensation, of which only ₹21.87 crore has been collected over five years. Advocates allege that nearly ₹149 crore sits idle in bank accounts rather than funding necessary environmental restoration, prompting calls for transparency in fund management and real-time reporting.

Karnal girl represents India at NASA-linked Mars project

Seventeen-year-old Yashika Mehla from Karnal represented India at a U.S. international space programme, collaborating with peers from 35 countries on Mars-related projects and observing NASA's work. Inspired by astronaut Kalpana Chawla, Yashika aspires to be an aeronautical engineer. The program, running since 1998, involves rigorous selection and training in space science for students aged 15-19.

J&K to get 3rd Vande Bharat train on Jammu-Srinagar rail route

Indian Railways plans to launch the third Vande Bharat train on the Jammu-Srinagar route, including Udhampur as a stop, following popular demand, as announced by Union minister Dr. Jitendra Singh. The two existing trains have operated since June 6, 2025, enhancing regional connectivity, while significant events like the Royal Premier League in Pulwama reflect the area's resurgence.

Public expenditure on Ashadhi Wari under scrutiny

Public expenditure on the 2026 Ashadhi Wari is under scrutiny as Solapur Zilla Parishad members demand an audit of ₹61.5 crore in state funds. Key concerns involve a ₹10 crore allocation for medicines and a ₹50 lakh spectacle purchase, questioned for transparency and necessity amidst pilgrimage services. Officials insist on the procurement’s legitimacy, pledging an inquiry. The pilgrimage drew 32 lakh attendees.

Himachal monsoon session begins today: BJP to target Congress on ‘vendetta politics’; Sukhu demands fact-based debate

The upcoming monsoon session in Himachal Pradesh, running from August 21 to September 3, is anticipated to be contentious, with the BJP accusing the state government of corruption and vendetta against opposition leaders. Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu urges constructive debate, promising to reveal evidence of previous mismanagement. Heavy security measures, involving 750 personnel, will ensure order during the session.

Punjab pollution board collects samples from Dhuri ethanol plant after villagers allege water pollution

The Punjab Pollution Control Board (PPCB) is investigating Harp Chemicals Private Limited for alleged pollution after local complaints. Samples were collected from the factory following concerns raised by village leaders. The company denies the allegations, asserting it treats waste and operates within regulations. The investigation's results are pending, with background inspections occurring every three months.

Ex-NCP secretary sends reminder notice to Sunetra Pawar, threatens court action

Former NCP national secretary Sachchidanand Singh has issued a reminder notice to party president Sunetra Pawar, demanding her re-election amid claims that her initial election was unconstitutional. Singh plans to escalate the issue to the Election Commission if no action is taken in 15 days. The NCP continues to face internal strife following recent leadership disputes.

4 killed, six injured in head-on truck crash in tunnel near Mandi

Four labourers were killed, and six others injured in a head-on collision between two trucks in the Dawada Tunnel on the Kiratpur-Manali highway Thursday morning. The deceased were young men from UP and Bihar, travelling with a glass consignment. Authorities attribute the accident to speed and overtaking, with traffic disruptions occurring as investigations began.

Saini: ₹416 crore released for house repairs of 85k families

Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini announced ₹416 crore has been allocated for house repairs benefiting 85,815 families under the Dr BR Ambedkar Housing Renovation Scheme. The government also supported 1,56,000 families through the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana. Additionally, a new court is set to be established in Kalayat to enhance local legal services.

‘Irregularities’ in HIMCARE: Vigilance grills ex-senior medical superintendent

The Himachal Pradesh SIT questioned Dr. Janak Raj, former senior medical superintendent of IGMC and current BJP MLA, regarding irregularities in the HIMCARE Scheme. The inquiry revealed lapses in procurement processes and inflated charges. Dr. Raj's evasive responses prompted the SIT to issue a detailed questionnaire. He alleged political vendetta, calling for a high court judge to oversee the investigation.

Himachal bans sale of ‘analogue paneer’ as genuine dairy paneer

The Himachal Pradesh government has banned the manufacture and sale of non-dairy "analogue paneer," effective immediately for one year, due to food safety violations. The move follows detection of adulterated products misrepresented as genuine paneer. Food business operators must ensure traceability, proper labeling, and compliance with food safety laws to avoid penalties and legal action.

Court rejects bail for railway ticket agent in VIP quota racket

A Mumbai sessions court denied bail to Mohammed Tarique Mahafuz Ahmad Khan, a railway ticket agent implicated in a network using forged Lok Bhavan documents to obtain VIP railway tickets. The court cited serious allegations of possible evidence tampering and witness intimidation. Approximately 400 fraudulent e-tickets linked to Khan have been identified, prompting an ongoing police investigation.

42-year-old stabs female friend at employer’s home, attempts suicide

A former driver, Shahabuddin Shaikh, 42, allegedly stabbed cook Roshanara Mohsin Ali Memon, 31, multiple times at their employer's Grant Road home after she refused to speak with him, before attempting suicide. Both are in critical condition. Police have registered a case and are yet to arrest Shaikh, who remains hospitalized. The attack occurred in a private kitchen.

Charter plane with 8 aboard crashes in US' Alaska, search underway

A charter plane with eight people on board crashed in Alaska, prompting an immediate search and rescue mission. Authorities are investigating the incident and are focused on locating survivors. The plane went down in a remote area, complicating rescue efforts. Such accidents highlight the challenges of air travel in Alaska’s rugged terrain.

Punjab: High court to hear pensioners’ contempt plea in dearness allowance case on August 21

The high court will hear a contempt petition Friday from four retired Punjab employees against state officials for failing to implement a court order on dearness allowance (DA) payments. The August 3 ruling required the government to release DA in line with All India Services rates, prohibiting unproductive spending until compliance. Petitioners claim officials knowingly violated the order.

Haryana fixes ₹7.5 lakh compensation for ‘unnatural’ deaths in police custody

The Haryana government will now provide ₹7.5 lakh compensation for “unnatural deaths” in police custody caused by torture or beating, with half recovered from accountable officials' salaries. This decision, prompted by the Haryana Human Rights Commission, excludes natural deaths and those resulting from escapes or disasters. It aims to enhance police accountability following a specific complaint regarding alleged torture.