Why the Russia sanctions bill could dent the US dollar: Explained

A proposed Russia sanctions bill, originally by Senator Lindsey Graham, could impose mandatory sanctions on Russia and penalize countries buying its oil and gas, raising concerns within the Trump administration about the impact on the US dollar's dominance. As sanctions increase, the US considers modernizing its approach to prevent countries from seeking alternatives to the dollar.

What are CJP's demands as supporters gear up for Parliament march?

Supporters of activist Sonam Wangchuk plan a march to Parliament at 9 am despite Delhi Police's warning against unauthorized gatherings. Wangchuk, on day 23 of his hunger strike over education system failures, will end his fast if the government takes accountability. The Cockroach Janta Party demands financial aid for families of deceased students, reinforcing the urgency of their protest.

11 dead, several missing after flash floods, landslides in Poonch, Rajouri

Torrential rains in Jammu and Kashmir led to landslides and flash floods, killing at least 11 people and leaving several missing, with Surankote tehsil suffering the most devastation. Rescue operations are ongoing, as local infrastructure faces major damage. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has prioritized relief efforts amid continued adverse weather conditions impacting public safety.

Shastri Bridge lane in Prayagraj to close again from July 28 for Kanwar Yatra

Commuters between Prayagraj and Varanasi will face renewed traffic restrictions as one lane of the Shastri Bridge closes from July 28 to accommodate Kanwariyas during the Sawan month. Traffic from Daraganj to Jhunsi will be diverted, with two-wheelers allowed on the remaining lane. The closure follows 43 days of prior restrictions for repairs on the bridge.

Ram temple donation theft: Tinnu Yadav, nephew quizzed about mastermind, money trail; 2 vehicles recovered

Ayodhya Police completed extensive questioning of key suspects Ram Shankar Yadav and his nephew concerning the alleged embezzlement of Ram temple donations. Investigators focused on identifying the mastermind and tracing misappropriated funds. Following their interrogation, the suspects were returned to jail. This effort is part of a broader investigation into procedural failures in donation handling.

Lucknow bench of Allahabad HC upholds life sentences of two accused in 39-year-old murder case

The Allahabad High Court upheld life sentences for Bateshwar and Ram Naresh in a 39-year-old murder case while acquitting them of rioting charges. The court emphasized the importance of the victim's dying declaration. Initially charged in April 1987, the accused must now surrender, as the remaining appeals were dismissed after a thorough review of evidence.

Rivers in spate, crocodile attacks take centre stage in Terai belt

Crocodile attacks are surging in Uttar Pradesh's Terai region as swelling rivers during the monsoon push crocodiles into human areas, leading to multiple fatalities and injuries. In Lakhimpur Kheri, three deaths have occurred in 60 days, with preventive measures now intensified by forest officials. Increasing vigilance and public awareness campaigns aim to mitigate this growing threat amid rising water levels.

Ram temple donation theft probe: SIT submits status report to Supreme Court in sealed cover, hearing today

The Uttar Pradesh government's Special Investigation Team submitted a sealed report to the Supreme Court regarding alleged donation theft at the Ayodhya Ram Temple, with a hearing set for Monday. Various petitions request a CBI probe and financial audits, emphasizing the need for regulatory measures to protect public interest and restore donor confidence amid ongoing concerns about the Trust's transparency.

₹13-lakh Punjab Vigilance Bureau graft case: CBI files final challan, names Home Guard volunteer as fifth accused

The CBI has filed a final chargesheet in the ₹13-lakh Punjab Vigilance Bureau bribery case, identifying five accused, including Punjab Vigilance Bureau’s Om Parkash Singh Rana and Home Guard personnel Mohit Devgan. Allegedly, a complaint against state tax officer Amit Kumar was fabricated using AI; a trap led to the recovery of ₹13 lakh in bribes.

Punjab government to ensure smooth roll out of VB-GRAMG, says minister Sond

Rural Development Minister Tarunpreet Singh Sond announced a seamless transition from MGNREGA to the new VB G RAM G scheme, effective July 1, with employment guarantees remaining unchanged. Under the updated plan, funding ratios shift to 60:40 from 75:25. Job card registration camps will start July 20, ensuring beneficiaries maintain service continuity.

Pharmacy officers’ recruitment exam: 28 candidates among 35 detained as Punjab Police bust cheating racket

In a significant crackdown on exam cheating, police from Faridkot and Ferozepur, aided by the state counter-intelligence wing, detained 35 people, including 28 candidates, for participating in an organized cheating operation during pharmacy officer recruitment exams. High-tech devices, including pen cameras, transmitted questions to accomplices. The scheme, led by Gurmeet Singh, charged candidates up to ₹13 lakh. Authorities found no evidence of official involvement but called for accountability amid growing concerns over exam integrity.

In UK, Akal Takht jathedar calls for Sikh unity

Giani Kuldeep Singh Gargaj, the acting jathedar of Akal Takht, emphasized Sikh unity during his recent UK visit, urging the community to rise above internal divisions. He advocated for active youth involvement in gurdwaras and the importance of the Miri-Piri principle. Gargaj highlighted the need for Sikhs to connect with Punjab, donate wisely, and defend the SGPC against divisive conspiracies.

SAD (Punar Surjit) represents ‘true’ Akali legacy: Giani Harpreet

SAD (Punar Surjit) chief Giani Harpreet Singh responded to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's criticism, asserting that it highlights who embodies the Akali legacy. He emphasized the party's commitment to Punjab's rights and its historical roots. He also mentioned the potential candidacy of Gobind Singh Longowal in the 2027 elections, while addressing unemployment and cultural concerns in Punjab.

6 held with heroin, 3 pistols in Fazilka

Fazilka police arrested six individuals, including a juvenile, and seized three pistols, 760 grams of heroin, and ₹2.5 lakh in suspected drug money, foiling a potential major crime. A tip-off led to their apprehension at a rice sheller. The investigation revealed prior criminal records among the accused, and efforts are ongoing to trace additional network connections.

500 days of anti-drug drive: Over 68k traffickers arrested, ₹319 crore assets attached

Punjab Police's anti-drug campaign, Yudh Nashian Virudh, launched on March 1, 2025, has led to the arrest of over 68,850 drug traffickers and the confiscation of assets totaling ₹319 crore. The campaign, with 52,432 FIRs filed, also aided 10,917 individuals toward treatment. The initiative aims to dismantle trafficking networks and involves community engagement.

Mann announces ₹2cr for indoor badminton hall at Jalandhar’s historic Raizada Hansraj stadium

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann announced a ₹2.14 crore grant for a new indoor badminton hall at the Raizada Hansraj Stadium in Jalandhar, set to enhance local sports infrastructure ahead of the Sub-Junior National Badminton Championship in December, which will welcome over 350 young players. This marks a significant commitment to promoting sports in Punjab. The project aims to convert existing outdoor courts into a premier facility, helping position Punjab as a leading badminton hub in north India.

AAP, SAD, Congress losing Punjab’s trust: Chirag Paswan

Union minister Chirag Paswan criticized the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), Congress, and Shiromani Akali Dal for losing public trust in Punjab, condemning AAP's governance and claiming corruption undermines its legitimacy. As president of Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas) and an NDA ally, he aims to strengthen his party ahead of the 2027 elections, expanding its influence in Punjab.

Punjab replaces 35 revenue terms to simplify property registration

The Punjab government has simplified property registration documents by replacing 35 complex language terms with commonly understood Punjabi words, making the process more transparent and user-friendly. Minister Hardeep Singh Mundian emphasized this initiative’s goal is to alleviate confusion for citizens. The changes stem from a special committee formed under Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann to enhance clarity in land-related paperwork.

Monsoon coming back to Punjab with full force, IMD sounds orange alert

Monsoon conditions are set to intensify in Punjab from July 20 to 22, with an orange alert issued by the IMD for heavy to very heavy rainfall, cautioning about flash floods and transport disruptions. After a week of subdued activity, cyclonic systems are reviving rainfall, especially in northern and central districts, where humidity relief is expected. Punjab has faced a significant rainfall deficit, receiving only 88.7 mm against a normal 150.4 mm, enhancing the significance of this upcoming wet spell.

Bombay HC directs state to decide ILS student’s complaint by Aug 11

The Bombay High Court has instructed the state to resolve a complaint from ILS Law College student Mayur Suhas Garud by August 11, following his assertion that a previous court order from February 2026 was ignored. The court verified that a hearing is scheduled for July 28 and noted recent developments on related fee proposals for 2022-25.

Maharashtra eyes UP’s digital health model to modernise public hospitals

The Maharashtra Public Health Department is considering technology-driven healthcare reforms from Uttar Pradesh, including a digital hospital monitoring system and enhanced emergency care, following a study visit to Lucknow. Health Services commissioner Sanjay Katkar emphasized the potential benefits for hospital management and patient care, with a feasibility report set to be submitted to the government. This initiative aims to strengthen public health through innovative practices.

3 held for posing as police officers, attempting to rob ₹1cr from bizmen

Police arrested three members of a gang that posed as officers and attempted to rob two businessmen of ₹1 crore in cash on Sinhagad Road. The incident occurred July 18 when the victims were intercepted by men on a motorcycle. The suspects, led by Vikram Chakanekar, are facing charges of attempted robbery and impersonation. Two accomplices remain at large.

CBI court postpones trial of 98-year-old ex-BOM CMD citing dementia

A 98-year-old former Bank of Maharashtra chairman has been deemed unfit for trial in a 30-year-old fraud case due to Alzheimer's-related dementia, prompting a six-month postponement. The court cited his mental and physical incapacity while allowing proceedings against other accused to continue. The case stems from a 1996 investigation into loan irregularities.

Repossess and widen road ‘encroached’ by MSRDC before concreting, Bandra residents tell BMC

Residents in Bandra Reclamation have urged the BMC to reclaim a section of K C Marg from the Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation (MSRDC) before ongoing roadwork is finalized, as the illegal occupation risks permanent narrowing of the road. The original 1970 layout envisioned a 36.6-metre width, compromised by MSRDC's office encroachment. BRAVO demands immediate action to restore the road's full width.

Maritime Board finalises new contractor, stalled Radio Club Jetty to restart

Maharashtra's stalled Radio Club Jetty project will resume under Modern Engineering and Projects Ltd, which won the ₹204-crore contract after the previous contractor was terminated for delays. The ₹229-crore project aims to expand jetty facilities for increasing passenger traffic. Despite prior opposition from locals and environmentalists, the government is moving forward with construction plans.

Centre clears ₹1,935 crore PM POSHAN budget for state, flags gaps in school nutrition

The Centre has allocated ₹1,935.39 crore for Maharashtra's PM POSHAN scheme for 2026-27, including ₹95.95 crore for eggs and fruits, amid declining student enrolment and inadequate training for cooks. Despite funding approval for 8.524 million students, concerns persist regarding health interventions and meal coverage gaps. Historically, Maharashtra has struggled with various policy fluctuations affecting nutritional support for children.

HC allows Lilavati Hospital trustee to travel abroad, orders ₹7.5 crore additional security deposit

The Bombay High Court has granted Lilavati Hospital trustee Rajesh Mehta permission to travel abroad for 120 days, provided he deposits ₹7.5 crore as security. The court noted his deep ties to India despite HDFC Bank's concerns over his significant debt of ₹67 crore. Mehta had challenged DRT orders regarding recovery proceedings against him.

Tug-of-war over finance and more

Mumbai's state finance department is embroiled in political tensions following Ajit Pawar's death, with the NCP's Sunetra Pawar asserting her claim amid budget preparations by CM Fadnavis. Jayant Patil's potential return as finance minister raises alarms among NCP leaders, while party dissent grows over leadership, particularly concerning Parth Pawar. Rohit Pawar’s silence hints at possible defection to Congress.

Oppn cries foul over BLOs working from party offices during SIR exercise

Allegations have arisen in Maharashtra that Booth Level Officers (BLOs) are verifying voters from political party offices instead of conducting door-to-door checks during the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, prompting opposition claims of bias by the ruling alliance. While BJP defends this as a support measure, critics warn it jeopardizes voter integrity. The SIR, aimed at verifying voter nationality, runs until August 8.

13 people rescued after losing way during Prabalgad trek

Thirteen trekkers lost in a dense forest near Prabalgad in Raigad were safely rescued after a four-hour operation by police, local guides, and volunteers on Saturday evening. A distress call led to the rescue amidst challenging terrain. Authorities urged caution, emphasizing the importance of proper preparation and experienced guidance during treks, especially in monsoon conditions.