Ram temple trust gets 5,200 applications for CEO’s job, defers selection

The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust has postponed its CEO selection by a month to adequately review the 5,200 applications received. An interim secretary and spokesperson will be appointed to handle administrative needs. Trustees also discussed increasing visitor arrangements for the Ram temple and unresolved vacancies, with the next meeting set for September 2.

Fairway mission: On course for change at Chandigarh Golf Club

Major RS Virk, elected at the Chandigarh Golf Club with a significant victory margin, is committed to fulfilling his promises of transparency and modern governance. In his first 90 days, he has successfully delivered on key initiatives that emphasize accountability and community involvement. A retired military officer, Virk combines discipline with approachability, aiming for meaningful club improvements.

‘Win the booth, win the election’: BJP launches grassroots blitz for 2027

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) held booth presidents’ conferences across all 403 UP Assembly constituencies to bolster grassroots organization for the 2027 elections. Key leaders, including Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, emphasized the importance of booth management and countering Opposition tactics. This initiative aims to secure BJP's dominance, recalling past challenges under the previous regime.

IIT-Delhi team likely to survey fire-hit Aliganj bldg, surroundings

Following the tragic June 22 fire in Aliganj that killed 15, IIT Delhi will conduct a thorough survey of the affected building and neighboring structures to assess public safety risks, as mandated by the Supreme Court. The investigation will evaluate building code violations and fire safety deficiencies, with results influencing future enforcement actions. Owners of the illegal complex have begun dismantling it prior to a July 25 deadline.

Minister calls for stronger public-private partnership to build healthier India

During MEDHARMONY 2026 in Pune, Union Minister Anupriya Patel emphasized the need for enhanced collaboration among government, healthcare professionals, industry, and academia to ensure accessible and quality healthcare for all. Addressing initiatives like Ayushman Bharat and digital health, she highlighted technology's role in underserved areas while advocating for public-private partnerships in tackling health challenges. The event fostered dialogue among healthcare stakeholders.

Congress workers breach barricades, clash with police personnel in Lucknow

Tension erupted outside the Uttar Pradesh Congress headquarters in Lucknow as Congress workers clashed with police amid heavy security. The confrontation began when workers, prepared to counter a BJP protest, resisted barricades. UP Congress president Ajay Rai criticized the BJP's tactics, while Congress activists emphasized their commitment to democratic resistance and accountability.

Ghazipur MP Afzal Ansari booked in arms licence records case

The Uttar Pradesh Police have filed a criminal case against Ghazipur MP Afzal Ansari over irregularities in arms licences linked to the IS-191 gang. Missing records and improper transactions were uncovered during an investigation initiated by DIG Vaibhav Krishna. The inquiry revealed collusion among arms clerks to conceal documents, facilitating the gang’s criminal activities.

Chaudhary leads BJP protest in Lucknow, terms Cong Delhi sit-in ‘political desperation’

The Uttar Pradesh BJP protested against Congress for a demonstration outside the Prime Minister's residence, deeming it "anti-national." Led by Pankaj Chaudhary, hundreds participated, facing heavy police presence and barricades. Chaudhary accused Congress of political desperation, urging them to use parliamentary channels instead of street protests. He highlighted the government's development initiatives for students during the protest.

UP announces one-time municipal tax settlement with full waiver

The Uttar Pradesh government has launched a four-month one-time settlement scheme for municipal tax defaulters, running from August 15 to December 15, allowing property owners to clear pending dues without interest or surcharge. Covering all urban local bodies, the initiative aims to recover over ₹1,500 crore in revenue while improving tax compliance and easing financial burdens on residents. Background efforts include awareness campaigns and online application support. Strict recovery measures will follow for those who do not participate.

SP delegation to knock on Rampur DM’s door amid bulldozer threat to Jauhar University

A 28-member Samajwadi Party delegation, including 15 current MLAs, will present a memorandum to the Rampur DM on Thursday, opposing the demolition of 38 buildings at Maulana Mohammad Ali Jauhar University. The party argues this action undermines constitutional rights and threatens educational access for marginalized students. Established in 2006 by Azam Khan, the university serves economically disadvantaged communities.

Ram Temple probe expands to Lucknow, assets of 54 kin of accused under scanner

Authorities have launched an extensive investigation into alleged embezzlement at the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Temple, expanding into Lucknow to scrutinize assets linked to the relatives of the accused. They are gathering property details from various departments to trace suspected proceeds from temple donations. This marks a shift from identifying theft to tracking potential money laundering activities.

3 arrested for murdering, burying 2 sadhus in Haridwar forest: Police

Three men, Ankur Giri, Ashu Saini, and Ram Milan, were arrested for the murder of two sadhus, Paras Giri and Sewa Giri, whose bodies were found buried near a Haridwar temple. Giri allegedly conspired with the others due to concerns over their aspirations for temple leadership. The trio is believed to have attacked the sadhus on the night of July 18.

Ambedkarite organisations protest Maharashtra govt's proposed sub-categorisation of SCs

Thousands of Ambedkarite protesters marched in Jalna, Maharashtra, opposing the proposed sub-categorisation of Scheduled Castes in state reservations, claiming it threatens community unity. Dalit leader Anandraj Ambedkar condemned the government's actions, warning of political consequences. Although the Chief Minister stated no final decision has been made, the Supreme Court allows such classifications based on data, not political motives.

Bengaluru has one public toilet for 30,000 citizens, reveals study

Bengaluru struggles with inadequate public sanitation, housing 1.4 crore residents but only 900 public toilets, equating to one for every 25,000-30,000 citizens. An audit by B.PAC found many toilets non-functional or unhygienic, with limited accessibility. Recommendations include a 30-day repair initiative and better management. For Bengaluru to thrive, public toilet conditions must improve significantly.

No compromise on crowd management during Bahuda Yatra on July 24: Odisha CM

Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi emphasized safety for the upcoming Bahuda Yatra, urging officials to implement robust crowd management and security measures after two devotees died during the recent Rath Yatra. With over 10 lakh expected attendees, technology will monitor crowd density. Financial aid has been announced for the victims’ families, acknowledging challenges faced during previous rituals.

RS adjourned till 3 pm: Govt says ready for debate on NEET; Oppn presses for Pradhan's resignation

The government is prepared to discuss the NEET paper leak issue in the Rajya Sabha, while accusing the Opposition of disrupting proceedings. Opposition Leader Mallikarjun Kharge insists debate can only occur after the education minister resigns. The House was adjourned amid ongoing protests. Rule 267, requested by the Opposition, is rarely invoked for such matters.

AI-powered security robot to debut at Puri station ahead of Bahuda Yatra

The East Coast Railway launched an AI-powered robotic surveillance platform, DSC ARJUN, at Puri station to bolster safety ahead of Lord Jagannath's Bahuda Yatra on July 24. Designed to enhance security with AI and machine learning, it offers features like facial recognition and crowd analytics, initially deployed at Puri before potentially moving to Bhubaneswar. Robotic policing began in 2020.

Andhra to deploy 2 kumki elephants to curb man-animal conflict near Odisha border

In a bid to address escalating man-elephant conflicts along the Odisha border, Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan has ordered the deployment of two trained 'kumki' elephants in Parvathipuram Manyam district. The elephants, Jayant and Abhimanyu, are set to assist in conflict mitigation operations, while the state explores additional measures to manage wild elephant incursions effectively.

Metro closures leave commuters stranded, force detours amid CJP protest in Delhi

New Delhi's DMRC closed 16 metro stations, including major hubs like Rajiv Chowk and Central Secretariat, for "security reasons" amid the Cockroach Janta Party protest, stranding commuters during peak hours. Many faced delays and confusion, forced to find alternative routes. This disruption marked the second incident in a week, aggravating frustrations over commuting challenges in central Delhi.

16 Delhi metro stations shut amid CJP protests, interchange facility available

The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation has closed 16 stations indefinitely as security increases during the ongoing Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) protests near Parliament amid the Monsoon Session. Tightened restrictions prohibit gatherings, with the police stating that no marches towards Parliament are permitted. The demonstrations, rooted in a NEET-UG paper leak, began in June, demanding governmental accountability.

Thane woman arrested for strangling husband to death for not buying her sarees

A 30-year-old woman, Sunitadevi Hareram Singh, has been arrested for allegedly murdering her husband, Hareram Kishunji Singh, following a domestic dispute over sarees. The incident, initially reported as accidental, was deemed a homicide after medical reports confirmed violent asphyxia. The couple's argument escalated into violence on July 19 in Badlapur East. Authorities suspect foul play.

St. Stephen's turns to alumni to fund campus overhaul; seeks donations for washrooms, ACs

St. Stephen's College in New Delhi is seeking alumni donations for a major campus infrastructure overhaul, addressing urgent needs like hostel washroom renovations and digitizing administration. Principal Susan Elias emphasized transparency in funding. The college's appeal comes amid scrutiny over governance and admissions, with detailed project costs outlined to encourage specific contributions from alumni.

Heavy rain lashes Mumbai as Tansa Lake overflows; reservoir stock rises to 62%

Heavy rain and gusty winds affected Mumbai on Wednesday due to an intensified southwest monsoon, leading the IMD to issue a yellow warning. The city recorded average rainfall of 36.65mm, raising reservoir levels to nearly 62%. Tansa Lake overflowed, prompting dam gates to open. Last year, reservoir levels were significantly higher at 85.32%.

Bhojshala row: SC to hear Muslim side's plea over alternate namaz site, seeks response of MP

The Supreme Court will hear a plea from the Muslim side challenging the Madhya Pradesh government's identification of a prayer site nearly 2 km from the disputed Bhojshala complex, instead of an adjacent location as mandated. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta assured the court he would investigate the issue, which follows a previous order for a nearby site for prayers. The case involves ongoing appeals regarding the Bhojshala's status as a temple.

Khadki stone labyrinth reveals ancient Mediterranean links

Archaeologists have discovered India’s largest ancient stone labyrinth, a 15-circuit structure in Khadki, revealing insights into the Satavahana-era trade network connecting India to the Roman world. Unearthed in late 2025, it measures 50 feet in diameter and showcases a unique circular design. The researchers emphasize its preservation due to its protected location and call for conservation efforts.

Jhundan backs Waris Punjab De, expelled from SAD (Punar Surjit) for 6 years

The Shiromani Akali Dal (Punar Surjit) faced a major setback as senior leader Iqbal Singh Jhundan and 15 supporters pledged allegiance to Shiromani Akali Dal (Waris Punjab De). Jhundan was expelled for anti-party activities shortly after, amid ongoing party splits including MLA Ayali's shift to Waris Punjab De and former minister Rakhra joining AAP. The Punar Surjit group, formed in 2025, aimed to be a reformist Panthic force.

No compromise with farmers’ interests: Kewal Singh Dhillon on India-US trade deal

Punjab BJP president Kewal Singh Dhillon reassured farmers regarding the India-US trade agreement, emphasizing that Prime Minister Modi guarantees protection of their interests, with crucial crops excluded. Despite ongoing discussions, no agreement is finalized, he stated. This comes as farmers were blocked from a protest in Delhi. Dhillon criticized opposition parties for misleading farmers while asserting BJP's commitment to their welfare.

Delhi protest: MPs detained, imagine students’ fate, says Congress leader Randhawa

Lok Sabha MP Sukhjinder Singh Randhawa condemned the detention of MPs and Congress workers protesting alleged NEET examination irregularities, stating it reflects broader injustices faced by students. He called for the resignation of Prime Minister Modi and key ministers, emphasizing that silencing students endangers democracy. Randhawa affirmed Congress’s commitment to hold the government accountable for youth welfare.

July 22 BRICS health ministers’ meet in Chandigarh: Focus on TB, infectious diseases, digital health

India will host the 16th BRICS health ministers’ meeting in Chandigarh from July 22 to 24, focusing on nine health areas, including tuberculosis research and pandemic preparedness. Attended by 11 nations, representing nearly half the global population, the meeting aims to enhance collaboration to tackle shared health challenges. The theme emphasizes resilience and sustainability, following priorities set at the 2025 summit in Brazil.

Kapurthala explores dolphin tourism along Beas

The Kapurthala district administration is considering eco-tourism initiatives along the Beas River, focusing on dolphin-viewing points to attract tourists. Deputy Commissioner Akash Bansal emphasized the area's potential, noting the presence of three Indus River Dolphins. Collaboration with WWF-India and local communities will be vital, ensuring tourism infrastructure respects the dolphins' natural habitat and supports conservation efforts.