Navy sailor family death: Cops find wife had told parents he’d kill her, kids

The Cuffe Parade police are investigating the tragic deaths of a Navy sailor, his wife, and two young children, suspected to be a murder-suicide. The woman had expressed fears for her safety due to her husband's ongoing depression. Investigators believe he may have poisoned them before taking his own life. Forensic tests are pending to confirm the cause of death.

AI Has Plunged the Book Publishing Industry Into Utter Chaos

Recent scandals in publishing have raised concerns about AI's influence on authorship, exemplified by Jerry Falade's novel facing scrutiny for possible AI involvement, leading to his agent's withdrawal. Amid this crisis, publishers are struggling to enforce standards, risking trust within the industry as authors and agents navigate an evolving landscape impacted by AI's capabilities and ethical implications.

Over 200 Japanese bigwigs to land in UP for mega investment push

Uttar Pradesh welcomes over 200 Japanese CEOs and policymakers for the ‘U.P.–Japan Investment Meet 2026’ from August 19-23, focusing on investment and job creation. Projects worth Rs 3,191 crore could generate over 10,000 jobs, with a dedicated “Japanese City” planned in YEIDA. The summit aims to enhance cooperation in manufacturing, green energy, and tourism.

LMC launches OTS scheme to waive interest, surcharge on property tax dues

Lucknow Municipal Corporation (LMC) has initiated a one-time settlement scheme allowing property owners to pay overdue taxes without interest or surcharge until April 1, 2026. The scheme, open until December 15, enables online and offline applications, with helpdesks established across eight zones. Additionally, LMC has demolished encroachments near the Polytechnic intersection to improve traffic flow.

Career & Finance Horoscope, August 18, 2026

Networking and informal conversations can significantly enhance your professional growth today, as a colleague or friend may provide valuable insights or opportunities. Different zodiac signs face various challenges and rewards, from financial planning for Capricorn to self-reflection for Pisces. The advice emphasizes cooperation and the importance of seeking support in career endeavors while leveraging crystals for focus and intention.

Chandigarh: Court convicts man in drug case, sentences him to one year jail

Amit Kumar was convicted and sentenced to one year of rigorous imprisonment and fined ₹25,000 for possessing 201 grams of heroin in a 2020 narcotics case. The court found the prosecution's evidence compelling, rejecting the defense’s claims of a fabricated case due to lack of supporting evidence. Kumar's family circumstances influenced the leniency of his sentence.

Nepalese woman run over by speeding taxi in Mohali

A 35-year-old woman, Lakshmi Thapa, died after being struck by a speeding Ertiga taxi while crossing the road near Mohali City Centre on August 14; the driver fled the scene. Police, investigating her husband’s complaint, are analyzing CCTV footage to identify the taxi. Lakshmi, from Nepal, was returning home from work when the tragedy occurred.

Chandigarh: Blood-stained clothes not enough to prove guilt, court acquits 2 in murder case

The Chandigarh district court acquitted Vijay and Vishal, two juveniles accused in a 2009 murder case, due to insufficient circumstantial evidence linking them to the crime. The court noted failures in the prosecution’s case, including lack of motive and corroborative evidence. The initial conviction by the juvenile justice board was overturned, resulting in their release.

Chandigarh MC to make NOCs mandatory for all shops, eateries selling meat

Chandigarh's municipal corporation will revamp regulations for meat and food establishments, presenting proposed "MCC Bylaws, 2026" to the General House on August 20. Key changes include penalties of up to ₹50,000 and mandatory no-objection certificates for raw meat businesses. The initiative aims to enhance hygiene, sourcing, inspection, and traceability within the commercial food sector, replacing outdated 2002 rules.

PU students demand withdrawal of 50% credit rule, varsity assures action

Engineering students and the All India Students’ Association (AISA) protested at Panjab University, demanding the rollback of the 50% credit rule that forces students to repeat the year if they haven’t cleared half their exams. Amid rising educational costs, students seek equity in exam criteria, while the university promises a response by Tuesday at noon. This rule stems from the National Education Policy 2020.

Chandigarh: BJP issues show-cause notice to Ward 14 councillor over ‘anti-party activities’

The BJP has issued a show-cause notice to Ward 14 councillor Kuljeet Singh Sandhu for breaching party discipline by publicly criticizing party leadership. Sandhu must submit a written explanation within three days or face disciplinary action. His statements stemmed from a June 29 MC General House meeting where he demanded the resignation of Chandigarh BJP president Jatinder Pal Malhotra.

Faced with swords, Chandigarh police use drones to drop tear gas shells

Chandigarh police deployed a drone capable of dropping tear gas shells during the Qaumi Insaaf Morcha’s protest on Independence Day, escalating measures after previous violent protests resulted in injuries to officers. The police utilized this technology in response to barricade breaches and threats from protesters armed with swords. They aim to use drones only in exceptional situations to minimize risks.

Unseen pics of Aishwarya from Cannes prove no one can beat her timeless beauty

Aishwarya Rai, the Indian star of Cannes, made a stunning return in 2026, showcasing elegant outfits styled by Mohit Rai, including a nude-toned gown with intricate embellishments and a voluminous feathered cape. After her impactful debut in 2002, she continues to lead with distinct fashion choices at the festival, reinforcing her status as a style icon.

MC plans multi-agency push to tackle Panchkula’s stray dog menace

Panchkula's municipal corporation is implementing a multi-agency approach to address the rising stray dog population, previously handling the issue with a single contractor. With about 20 dog-bite patients daily and over 14,000 reported cases last year, multiple agencies authorized by the Animal Welfare Board will undertake targeted sterilisation drives. This shift aims to improve compliance with regulations, though some community feeding proposals face backlash.

National space technology conclave | India set for a global leap in space sector: Experts

The opening of India's space sector to private participation in June 2020 has led to over 450 operational space start-ups, according to Vinod Kumar, IN-SPACe director, at the National Space Technology Conclave-2026. The event showcased India's advancements in space technology, emphasizing the need for innovation and strategic contributions from universities to enhance the country’s space capabilities and global market engagement.

DMK stages walkout from House after row over 19-year-old’s murder

Udhayanidhi Stalin, the Leader of Opposition in Tamil Nadu, led a walkout during an assembly debate over the alleged lynching of 19-year-old Amudhan in Coimbatore, claiming it was a targeted murder rather than a gang conflict linked to drug activities. The state government responded by emphasizing its swift legal actions and support for the victim's family.

Panchkula man loses ₹20L in immigration fraud, 2 booked

Pinjore police have filed a case against two individuals for allegedly defrauding a Panchkula man, Gurbant Singh, of ₹20 lakh by promising to send his son to Canada. Despite an agreement and multiple payments made over two years, the immigration service failed to fulfill its promises, and its office is now reportedly closed. Investigations are ongoing.

TTD begins total overhaul of accounting, fiscal management systems, say officials

The Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) is revamping its accounting and financial management systems amidst scrutiny over financial practices in religious institutions. Collaborating with the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India, TTD aims to modernize its nearly 30-year-old accounting manual, enhancing governance and internal controls to prevent financial irregularities and set a benchmark for other temples.

SIT probe into ghee procurement case going in right direction: Kerala HC

The Kerala High Court affirmed that the SIT investigation into ghee misappropriation at Sabarimala temple is progressing appropriately, with records seized from the Travancore Devaswom Board and milk cooperative MILMA. The inquiry reveals potential irregularities in ghee procurement, resulting in significant financial loss. This investigation addresses alleged favoritism that compromised fair bidding practices.

Girl’s body found in suitcase in Delhi’s Burari; relative arrested

A girl's body was discovered in a suitcase in Delhi's Burari area after police arrested a relative linked to her murder. Following a tip-off, an investigation revealed the crime, with the accused reportedly confessing and leading authorities to the location. The case, previously unreported, is under ongoing investigation for motive and circumstances surrounding the death.

7.3 million names not included in Telangana draft rolls

Telangana’s draft electoral rolls have excluded 7.3 million names as the Election Commission, during a special revision, identified 9.2 million electors needing verification due to discrepancies. This exercise aims to enhance voter participation, revealing many voters have permanently shifted or passed away. Genuine electors can submit claims from August 17 to September 16 to rectify their status.

Comply with Cauvery water release order: SC

The Supreme Court of India ordered Karnataka to comply with the Cauvery Water Management Authority’s directive to release water to Tamil Nadu, awaiting a status update next week. Tamil Nadu claims insufficient water has been released, while Karnataka asserts it has exceeded requirements. The dispute centers on compliance and water-sharing amidst differing state claims, prompting continued court monitoring.

Vijay unveils full waiver of crop loans up to ₹75k to TN farmers

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay announced a full waiver on cooperative crop loans up to ₹75,000, costing ₹953.06 crore to the state. This follows a previous waiver of loans up to ₹50,000. The move aims to support 14.44 lakh farmers amid growing agricultural needs and comes after farmer associations pressed for broader relief.

Oppn disrupts Assembly over demand for minister’s removal

Bengaluru's legislature faced disruptions on Monday as the BJP and JD(S) demanded the dismissal of Minister B Nagendra over his alleged role in a multi-crore embezzlement and poaching killings. Opposition leaders refused to proceed without his resignation, while the government called for proof of wrongdoing. Background details highlight the complexities of recent forest minister controversies and ongoing inquiries.

Transgender IDs to be valid till verdict is out on new law, govt tells SC

The Union government assured the Supreme Court that existing transgender identity card holders will retain their benefits pending a decision on the new law's constitutional validity. The court emphasized protecting current cardholders while refusing to extend interim measures to those without cards. Ongoing challenges to the 2026 amendment law invoke concerns over self-identification rights from the 2014 NALSA judgment.

Samajwadi Party’s ‘5 extra votes’ formula aims to build on 2024 momentum

In preparation for the fiercely contested 2027 Uttar Pradesh assembly polls, the Samajwadi Party (SP) has tasked booth-level agents with adding five new voters at each of the 1.77 lakh booths statewide. This strategy draws from data indicating SP's electoral strengths during the 2024 elections. Despite BJP's organizational advantages, SP leaders aim to capitalize on public dissatisfaction with governance issues.

Jharkhand exams cancelled, hunger strike ends, but a key demand remains

Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren canceled the JSSC-CGL exam and all TDPL exams, prompting protesting students to end their 14-day hunger strike. While a reform committee will be established, protesters still demand a CBI investigation into alleged exam irregularities. The ongoing unrest began with a CID probe into recruitment exam controversies since July.

Money spent on foreign goods partly used to fuel terrorism, says Yogi

Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath urged ration shop dealers to promote local products, claiming that money spent on foreign goods supports terrorism and destabilizes India. He introduced an e-PoS feedback system and announced an increase in dealer margins. Since 2017, he reported improved ration distribution transparency and noted the government’s support for low-income families and local artisans.

HC issues contempt notices to Uttar Pradesh chief secretary, three other officers

The Allahabad High Court's Lucknow bench has issued contempt notices to four officials, including Chief Secretary Shashi Prakash Goyal, for not obeying a May 8, 2026 order regarding the DGME post. The court has set a September 16 hearing for the officials to explain their non-compliance, following a petition by Dr. Mukesh Yadav that cites disobedience of the court's directive. The May 8 order mandated that the DGME position could only be filled after considering the principals of state medical colleges.

Two Muslims among eight Uttar Pradesh leaders in BJP’s new national team

As Uttar Pradesh gears up for assembly elections, the BJP's newly formed national team aims to balance caste, community, and gender representation. The team includes eight leaders from the state, notably retaining Muslim members, Tariq Mansoor and Kunwar Basit Ali, signaling a strategic outreach to Pasmanda Muslims and efforts to counter the Samajwadi Party's influence. Background details reveal the diverse composition of the team, with members representing various communities, including women and OBCs, reflecting the party's attempt to connect with broader demographics.