Frank Kendall's access to classified info revoked over Air Force One leak claim

The Pentagon revoked former Air Force Secretary Frank Kendall's access to classified information, alleging he disclosed sensitive details about Air Force One to the media. Kendall denied any wrongdoing, expressing confusion over the decision. This action follows his public concerns regarding the security of modifications made to a Boeing 747 aircraft donated to Trump, amid online backlash.

Fresh case against history-sheeter Ayanki over FB post targeting Kerala CM

Kochi police have registered a case against history-sheeter Arjun Ayanki for allegedly defaming Kerala Chief Minister on social media, following a Facebook post from August 5, where he criticized the Chief Minister and provoked public disorder. Ayanki, already wanted for threats to police, remains on the run. His legal troubles trace back to a 2021 gold smuggling network.

Rotten meat, fungus on veggies: Major food safety violations at Bengaluru hotels

Several luxury hotels in Bengaluru are under scrutiny by the Food Safety and Drug Administration (FDA) due to significant food safety violations, including expired and improperly stored food. Recent inspections revealed alarming issues such as fungal growth and inadequate food segregation. The state is responding to increased public complaints and has launched an extensive enforcement campaign following previous drives to ensure compliance with food safety standards.

WHO warns physically inactive people face 20-30% higher death risk

The WHO’s June 2024 guideline highlights the increasing global health crisis due to rising physical inactivity and sedentary lifestyles, linked to noncommunicable diseases (NCDs). The report emphasizes that any physical movement is beneficial, with personalized recommendations for all age groups. Sedentary behavior heightens health risks, stressing the need for active lifestyles to combat these dangers.

The cop with a cam: How IPS Shivendra Kant Tewari captures, shoots his subjects skillfully

Indian Police Service officer Shivendra Kant Tewari combines his passion for photography and duty, often capturing stunning images across India and nearly 45 countries with no formal training. His experience spans wildlife to human portraits, notably at the Maha Kumbh Mela. Though he showcases no immediate plans for exhibitions, his journey from a borrowed camera to award-winning shots reflects a profound commitment to his craft.

Mohali: Insurance firm fined for rejecting mishap claim, to pay over ₹2 lakh

The district consumer disputes redressal commission in Ropar has ordered Universal Sompo General Insurance to pay ₹2 lakh to Kurali resident Amrish Kaushal, whose motor insurance claim was wrongly denied. The commission ruled that delays in vehicle registration transfer due to Covid-19 regulations were not Kaushal's fault. He had completed necessary steps to transfer ownership before the accident.

Refund ₹4k to consumer, Mohali panel directs optical store

The Mohali district consumer disputes redressal commission ordered Gobind Optical Works to refund ₹4,000 and pay ₹5,000 in compensation due to a customer’s complaint of defective spectacles. Ashwani Kumar Vashist experienced blurred vision after receiving the lenses and, despite multiple requests for rectification, received no resolution, leading the commission to deem them deficient in service.

Uttarakhand CM responds after Rishabh Pant seeks help to shift back home

Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami assured Rishabh Pant of assistance regarding his land acquisition request in his native state. Pant, struggling to secure land over the past three years, expressed his desire to relocate. Dhami praised Pant as Uttarakhand's pride and committed to facilitating the process, promising timely contact and cooperation.

Kin of workers’ families denied insurance benefits, Mohali industry claims

The Mohali Industries Association has accused the Employees’ State Insurance Corporation (ESIC) of unjustly denying medical claims and delaying benefits for insured workers, citing worsened conditions since the appointment of regional director Deepak Malik. They demand immediate action on pending claims. The association highlights inadequate medical infrastructure for over 3.8 lakh insured individuals in Mohali, urging government intervention.

Chandigarh: Power firm launches WhatsApp helpline for safety hazards

Chandigarh Power Distribution Limited (CPDL) has introduced a WhatsApp helpline for residents to report electrical safety hazards, enhancing response times for infrastructure issues. Consumers can save the number 9240216666, text “Help,” and provide details including location and photographs of hazards. This initiative addresses risks such as snapped wires and damaged poles, ensuring prompt action.

Mohali: Peer Muchalla residents flag trash dumps, demand civic solutions

Residents of Peer Muchalla are alarmed by worsening civic conditions, particularly illegal garbage dumping that poses health risks, despite partial resolution of sewage overflow issues. According to local leaders, the problem has been exacerbated by construction debris and household waste attracting flies. Officials acknowledge the situation, attributing it to a sanitation workers' strike, promising normalization soon.

Cong leader killed after speeding SUV rams truck on link connecting Mumbai, Pune

A speeding SUV collided with a mini truck on the Mumbai-Pune Expressway, resulting in the death of a 35-year-old Congress leader and injuring six others. The incident occurred early Friday inside a tunnel on the newly opened 13-km stretch. Police report that excessive speed led to the crash, with ongoing investigations into the matter.

K'taka CM calls on industries to partner with govt to boost rural education through CSR

Bengaluru's Chief Minister D K Shivakumar has called for industries to invest in rural education through CSR initiatives, emphasizing technology access from an early age. At the Vision 2030 - CSR Summit, he highlighted Karnataka's budget plan to enhance 2,000 schools and urged companies like Infosys and Wipro to adopt local schools. A dedicated IAS officer will monitor CSR fund usage.

The Odyssey crosses $1 billion; set to become Nolan's highest-grossing film

Christopher Nolan’s adaptation of Homer’s *The Odyssey* has grossed $1 billion worldwide in just three weeks, outperforming *The Dark Knight*. The film, starring Matt Damon, earned $429.6 million in North America and $578.8 million overseas, despite competition from *Spider-Man: No Way Home*. Critics have praised its scale and performances, anticipating Oscar recognition.

Rampur SP says 'true Muslim' won't engage in cow slaughter, issues clarification after furore

Rampur Superintendent of Police Anil Kumar Singh Sisodia sparked controversy by stating that a "true Muslim" would not engage in cow slaughter, a comment seen as inflammatory. He later clarified that his intention was to promote social harmony and avoid hurting religious sentiments during the Shravan month, citing guidance from Darul Uloom Deoband on respectful practices.

Chandigarh: Mothers first line of defence against drugs, says Kataria

Punjab Governor Gulab Chand Kataria emphasized mothers as the primary defense against drug addiction at a recent workshop, urging them to take proactive roles in safeguarding their children. He noted the necessity of collective efforts from families and society in combating drug abuse. Highlighting Punjab's heritage, Kataria called for educational initiatives to bolster this cause.

₹3 lakh relief to New Chandigarh flat buyer over delayed possession

The District Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission, Mohali, has ordered Address Infrastructure Private Limited to deliver a flat in New Chandigarh following significant delays in possession. The builder must pay ₹3 lakh in compensation and interest for the buyer's additional living expenses. This decision arose from a complaint by Arvinder Arora, who booked the flat in June 2022.

Panchkula: Domestic help held for stealing cash, gold, diamond jewellery

A domestic worker was arrested for stealing gold and diamond jewellery worth ₹22.5 lakh within six hours of the crime in Sector-16 on August 5. The accused, who had worked for the complainant for seven years, was identified through prior police verification. Prompt police action led to the recovery of the stolen items and cash. Authorities emphasize the importance of timely police verification for domestic workers to enhance safety and prevent theft.

GMADA to upgrade online land pooling portal, new features to come up by August 11

The Greater Mohali Area Development Authority (GMADA) plans to enhance its online land pooling portal following landowner feedback, addressing technical issues that limited application success. With upgrades by August 11, features like draft-saving and mixed plot options will be added. This initiative aims to simplify the application process for the Aerotropolis residential project, expected to yield 7,000 applications.

Mohali: Ensure promised amenities are provided, promoter told

The Punjab Real Estate Regulatory Authority (RERA) has mandated the Opera Garden promoters to fulfill incomplete amenities, secure residents' rights, and return interest-free maintenance security to residents. Complaints highlighted extensive deficiencies, prompting RERA’s intervention under the Real Estate Act. Despite ongoing disputes, RERA affirmed the residents' association's right to file grievances and clarified maintenance responsibilities.

Punjab government pensioners’ protest cause traffic chaos in Chandigarh

Employees and pensioners from the Punjab Mulazam and Pensioner Sanjha Front protested near Chandigarh, demanding the release of an 18% pending dearness allowance and restoration of the Old Pension Scheme. The protest, halted by police barricades, caused traffic chaos but emphasized broader family involvement. Union leaders criticized the AAP government for unmet promises, prompting this mobilization for employee rights.

Chandigarh: Kin of persons with mental disabilities seek implementation of 2017 act

Families of individuals with mental disabilities, along with psychiatrists, urged Chandigarh to implement the Mental Healthcare Act, 2017, citing significant flaws in the Group Home for mental health patients. The Chandigarh Mental Health Authority remains unestablished, hindering crucial registration and grievance processes. Advocates demand improved staffing and care standards, and they plan to meet with local officials to address these issues.

Woman sues Mercedes after metallic AMG logo allegedly burns her skin

Mercedes drivers, including plaintiffs Karandeep Bath and Gabriel Lahijani, are suing the company over a design defect involving the metallic AMG logo badge on vehicle seats, which allegedly caused burns. Lahijani experienced severe pain and a second-degree burn after contacting the logo. Social media reactions vary, with some supporting the lawsuit while others express skepticism.

Chandigarh: No proof liver disease was alcohol induced, insurer told to settle claim

A Chandigarh commission has ordered Star Health to reimburse ₹6 lakh to the family of a deceased policyholder after rejecting the insurer's claim denial, citing unsubstantiated alcohol-related exclusions. The commission found no credible evidence linking cirrhosis solely to alcohol. The policyholder, Charanjit Singh, had a history of health coverage and incurred significant medical expenses before his passing.

Chandigarh: Digital museum at Le Corbusier Centre gets heritage panel’s nod

The Chandigarh Heritage Conservation Committee (CHCC) approved a digital museum proposal at the Le Corbusier Centre under the Swadesh Darshan Scheme 2.0, enhancing visitor experience while preserving the heritage. The project involves minimal intervention to the structure and incorporates recommended safeguards. Additionally, the committee deferred a zoning plan for the Capitol Complex buffer zone, emphasizing its heritage protection.

‘Passed without discussion’: Chandigarh MC chief orders fact-finding report into ₹227-crore table agenda

Amid controversy over a ₹227-crore agenda passed without discussion at the July 31 municipal corporation meeting, MC commissioner Amit Kumar has ordered a fact-finding report. Concerns arose as the agenda lacked expenditure details and was approved without prior notice to councillors. Mayor Saurabh Joshi has called for its withdrawal for transparency in future discussions.

Chandigarh: Congress brings Bansal back into key panel, Tewari in-charge of poll panel

Ahead of December's municipal elections, Congress has appointed former MP Pawan Kumar Bansal to a political affairs committee, while Manish Tewari leads the State Election Committee crucial for electoral preparations. This arrangement aims to balance party dynamics post-2024 Lok Sabha tensions. As grassroots efforts intensify, candidate selection and managing internal dissent will be vital for success. Bansal has a history of ministerial roles under the UPA.

Asst postmaster arrested for embezzling ₹1.40 cr in Sambhal

An assistant postmaster in Sambhal, Deepak Kumar, was arrested for allegedly embezzling ₹1.40 crore through misappropriation of funds from savings accounts and fixed deposits, transferring the stolen money to online gaming platforms like Dream11 using forged documents. The fraud surfaced after several victims reported missing funds, leading to seven FIRs and a broader investigation into potential additional misconduct within the postal department.

EC extends SIR deadline, BLOs get nine more days

The Election Commission extended Karnataka's electoral roll revision deadline to August 17, prompting a new draft publication date of August 24 due to nearly half of Bengaluru's electors marked as ASDDO. Approximately 46.5% of Bengaluru’s electors are categorized as such, significantly surpassing the statewide average. This revision aims to enhance voter accuracy ahead of upcoming elections.

Punjab govt to host 41 free ‘Hamare Ram’ performance in 12 cities: Mann

The Punjab government launched a cultural initiative with the play “Hamare Ram” in Mohali, featuring 41 free performances in 12 cities this August and September, announced Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann. Aimed at promoting cultural heritage and Lord Ram’s teachings, the initiative seeks to inspire youth through theatre while preserving Punjab's diverse traditions and values.