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Shot wife at work, put ‘betrayal’ status: How Lucknow murders unfolded in 2 hrs
In a tragic incident in Lucknow, bank employee Divya Mishra, 37, was shot dead by her estranged husband, Manas Bajpayee, just outside her workplace. After allegedly killing his sister at home, Bajpayee died by suicide. The couple, living separately since 2025, had a tumultuous relationship exacerbated by Divya's divorce filing amidst claims of "betrayal."

Tagore’s advice, 1937 decision: History behind Congress’s Vande Mataram stand
The Congress Working Committee's October 1937 resolution accepted only the first two stanzas of "Vande Mataram," acknowledging their emotional resonance while deeming the rest controversial. The current clash between Congress and BJP stems from this historic decision, reigniting debates on nationalism, communalism, and Tagore’s intent, reflecting deep-rooted ideological divides in India’s political landscape.

‘We are on India’s side’: Polish envoy backs right to pursue terrorists
Polish envoy Piotr Antoni Switalski emphasized Poland's support for India's right to combat terrorism, citing shared experiences as victims. He also highlighted the cultural ties stemming from the shelter offered by Kolhapur's royal family to 5,000 Polish refugees during WWII, advocating for enhanced cooperation between Poland and India to establish stability amid global challenges. Historically, the relationship has deep roots.

Harvard warns students to return by Sept. 15 as new F-1, J-1 visa rules near
Harvard University is urging international students to be in the U.S. by September 15, when a new DHS rule will replace the "duration of status" system for F-1 and J-1 visas with fixed admission periods. Students already in the U.S. will have different treatment compared to those re-entering post-deadline, which could impact their academic plans and extensions. Legal challenges to the rule are pending.

‘I fired my mom in 2 weeks’: Woman explains why she let her mother go as manager
Avanti Nagral's experience highlights the complexities of mixing family and professional roles after hiring her mother as her manager. Within two weeks, she let her go, finding that her mother’s protective instincts hindered her career growth. Nagral emphasized the lack of support available for artists in finding professional managers, often leading them to rely on family.

Mumbai's BMC to implement OC amnesty scheme for hsg societies; 5 things to know
The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) is launching an amnesty scheme to help eligible housing societies in Mumbai obtain long-overdue Occupation Certificates (OCs). Approved on August 18, it addresses about 12 lakh homeowners in 25,000 buildings lacking OCs. Key conditions include a cut-off date, IOD and CC requirements, size restrictions, and a No Objection Certificate from developers. The scheme doesn’t regularize illegal constructions.

Yash's Toxic cleared by CBFC with no cuts, A-rating, internet is amused
Yash, co-writer and lead of the upcoming film "Toxic," emphasizes its adult themes, stating it’s not for children. The Central Board of Film Certification approved the film with minimal modifications, having no cuts, despite its violent content, leading to online reactions questioning the censor board's inconsistencies. Directed by Geetu Mohandas, "Toxic" releases on August 26.

Book review | A penny and some poems for the thoughts left unsaid
Soumya Mukerji's debut poetry collection, *Cries*, captures unvoiced emotions through powerful verses. Divided into three sections, it explores themes of self, relationships, and existential musings, using rain as a recurring motif. The book's reflective poems resonate deeply, revealing the complexities of human experience while emphasizing that “perfection is plastic.” Published by Westland Books, it retails for ₹350.

Sunita Ahuja claims Govinda planned to marry rumoured GF Komal Rani Swarnkar
The controversy surrounding Govinda escalated after Sunita Ahuja withdraws her divorce petition, claiming Govinda and actor Komal Rani Swarnkar plan to marry. Govinda criticized Sunita's language about their relationship, urging her to set a better example for youth. Amidst this, he returns to film production with “Roopa,” where Komal stars alongside him, intensifying the sensational drama.

Evidence against Patrick Clancy? Wild claims made online amid Lindsay's trial
Lindsay Clancy faces trial for allegedly killing her three children in January 2023, with her lawyers arguing postpartum psychosis as a defense. Ex-husband Patrick Clancy, under public scrutiny after moving to New York and remarrying, is not considered a suspect. Online claims against him lack verification, and authorities have found no evidence supporting these allegations.

Flipkart Sale: Premium washing machines with advanced features to consider now
Premium washing machines, featuring advanced functions like inverter motors, steam options, and smart connectivity, cater to discerning buyers. Brands such as Bosch, LG, IFB, and Samsung offer models that combine convenience and energy efficiency. While these machines suit larger households, they come with higher prices and potential complexity. The ongoing Flipkart Sale may provide enticing discounts for these upgrades.

Moises Henriques begins Portugal chapter with maiden T20I hundred
Moises Henriques has made an immediate impact for Portugal, scoring 111 runs in his maiden T20I century against Czechia during the 2028 T20 World Cup qualifiers. This performance, including 12 fours and seven sixes, makes him the leading run-scorer with 178 runs. Formerly an Australian international, Henriques aims to replicate Italy's success in cricket.

IndiGo’s transition plan has one risk too many: ‘Unrealistic ambitions’
In April 2024, IndiGo announced an order for 30 A350-900 aircraft, aiming to shift from a low-cost to a network carrier, with deliveries expected by mid-2028. Despite the airline's ambitions, experts express skepticism due to internal challenges, including recent management turmoil, and formidable external competition and infrastructure limitations, which may hinder its strategic transition.

All of us should have the right to age with dignity
As India's first children of independence turn 79, the nation faces a crucial challenge: its elderly care system is outdated. With a significant rise in the elderly population, existing welfare measures are inadequate, failing to offer necessary support. Legal reforms are needed to ensure dignity in aging, making elder care a right, not just a government scheme.

Focus on ‘greatness’ to Iran deal: Trump may escape the consequences of his mess
President Trump remains fixated on personal projects, including self-aggrandizing monuments, restrictive immigration policies, and controversial voter legislation, while largely ignoring economic concerns like inflation. His obsession with Iran and voter fraud has alienated moderates but may shield Republicans from midterm backlash due to gerrymandering. Democratic disunity further complicates their opportunity to capitalize on Trump's vulnerabilities.

Telangana Congress rift deepens as party takes action over ‘anti-CM’ remarks
The Telangana Congress faced escalating internal strife as the disciplinary committee penalized several leaders for "anti-party" comments, including taking action against state minister Konda Surekha due to her daughter’s critical remarks about Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy. The committee, led by MP Mallu Ravi, demanded explanations, highlighting rising dissent within the party. This turmoil arises amid concerns over loyalty and leadership accountability in the Congress.

Posed as Lok Sabha employee, promised job: CBI arrests man on the run for 10 yrs
The CBI arrested Jitendra Pathak, a proclaimed offender wanted for evading arrest for 10 years, accused of duping a person of Rs 50,000 by posing as a Lok Sabha employee to secure a job in Parliament. Pathak was declared a proclaimed offender in 2016 after failing to appear in court. He was located and apprehended in Ludhiana on August 19.

Govt gives rupee export earnings same benefits as dollar, euro payments
The Indian government has equated export earnings in rupees with those in foreign currencies to enhance benefits under the Foreign Trade Policy (FTP). This amendment allows eligible exporters to claim FTP advantages for rupee payments, fostering greater rupee use in international trade. However, experts caution that practical banking solutions and systems must support this shift for widespread adoption.

Milleridge Inn fire update: What happened at North Broadway, Jericho?
A fire at the historic Milleridge Inn in Jericho, New York, was reported on August 20, igniting community concern. Witnesses took to social media, with comments reflecting shock and relief over everyone's safety, though no official fire department details or cause have emerged. The inn, known for its historical significance, now faces uncertainty following recent flood damage in the area.

UP CM seeks overhaul of sarvodaya schools, fast-tracks teacher hiring
Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has called for an overhaul of Jai Prakash Narayan Sarvodaya residential schools, urging swift recruitment of teachers and clearer regulations amid recent student protests across Uttar Pradesh demanding better facilities. With school numbers rising from 93 to 103 since 2017, he emphasized the need for effective management and timely disbursement of scholarships and pensions to eligible beneficiaries.

Many UP dists ‘ban’ unauthorised entry and filming in govt schools
After viral videos exposed poor mid-day meals in UP government schools, officials banned outsiders, including YouTubers, from school premises to maintain educational integrity. This follows student protests over inadequate facilities. While state officials denied a formal order, local education officers emphasized security and image protection. Critics argue that these measures impede media scrutiny essential for school improvement.

The Odyssey is now highest-grossing R-rated film, beats Deadpool & Wolverine
Christopher Nolan's film The Odyssey has become the highest-grossing R-rated movie of all time, earning $1.352 billion worldwide, surpassing Deadpool & Wolverine. Featuring stars like Matt Damon and Anne Hathaway, the film adapts Homer's epic poem and received critical acclaim. Since its July 17 release, it has resonated widely and is expected to continue its box office success.

Woman banker filed for divorce, sought compensation and return of dowry: Police
In a tragic incident in Gomti Nagar, Manas Bajpai allegedly shot his estranged wife, Divya Mishra, and sister, Sheeba Bajpai, before turning the gun on himself amid divorce proceedings and dowry disputes. The couple had lived apart for almost five years, with Divya filing for divorce months ago, intensifying tensions within the family.

Aerocity construction site: 2 labourers killed as portion of excavated earth slides
Two labourers, Ominder, 30, and Udayveer, 40, were killed, and another worker injured after earth collapsed at a construction site in Aerocity on Thursday. Six labourers were trapped while working when the earth gave way. Residents criticized safety measures, noting previous concerns about the unstable excavation. The project is associated with Elite Medicity Private Limited.

Cow meat banned, ₹5 lakh fine for sale, storage of cow flesh/beef gets MC nod
Chandigarh's MC House has approved an agenda to modernize food regulations, introducing mandatory no objection certificates (NOC) and severe fines, including a ₹5 lakh penalty for the sale of prohibited beef. The new "MCC Bye-laws, 2026" will replace outdated laws and focus on hygiene and compliance, with public feedback welcomed before final consideration.

Chandigarh: Passed sans discussion in last meet, 16 table agendas junked
All 16 controversial table agenda items, including a ₹227 crore proposal, were rejected in Thursday's municipal corporation meeting without discussion, marking a contentious issue among councillors. Mayor Saurabh Joshi confirmed that BJP members supported the rejection. The items will be reintroduced in the next meeting. This follows protests from Opposition councillors questioning the urgency of the previous approvals.

Pre-planned plot? 3 unlicensed arms found at accused’s house
Lucknow police discovered three unlicensed firearms at Manas Bajpai’s residence, crucial to investigating the fatal shootings of his wife, Divya, and her sister. Authorities are assessing if the attacks were premeditated or impulsive, as Bajpai's sister claimed he stalked Divya before the incident, highlighting ongoing marital issues. Forensics collected evidence as the case unfolds.

2 women fall prey to snatchers in Zirakpur, Balongi in 72 hours
Two women were victims of snatching incidents in Zirakpur and Balongi recently, prompting police investigations. Manju, 37, lost her gold chain to two men on a motorcycle, while Sumitra, 26, sustained injuries trying to protect her phone during a violent attempt by two men. Both cases have led to registered complaints under relevant legal sections.

Chandigarh: Congress cries foul, says House ‘kept in dark’ over scrapping of free water agenda
The Chandigarh administration has annulled a proposal to provide 20,000 litres of water to every household, initially passed by the Congress-Aam Aadmi Party alliance during the 2024 elections. The decision, made in February, was revealed by opposition leader Gurpreet Singh Gabi, who accused the MC administration of withholding information. Former Mayor Babla denied involvement, stating she was not implicated in the annulment process.

Punjab bandh call: Private schools in Chandigarh closed, PU exams postponed
In anticipation of chaos due to the statewide shutdown by the Qaumi Insaaf Morcha, most private schools in the tricity are choosing to close or switch to online classes, while Panjab University has postponed Friday's exams to September 10. Despite this, government schools remain open. Concerns over traffic disruptions influenced these decisions, reflecting a cautious approach to student safety.


