IISER Pune students protest after student’s death, seek hostel reforms and mental health support

Students at IISER Pune protested on Thursday against hostel restrictions, inadequate mental health support, and limitations on student voices, following the death of a third-year female student. They demand better counselling services, restoration of student council roles, and relaxed hostel rules. The administration maintains its commitment to safety and is hiring more counsellors, citing ongoing investigation protocols.

Saini: Law & order Haryana govt’s top priority

Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini has dismissed claims of ineffective law enforcement, stating the government adopts a zero tolerance approach to crime, empowering police for swift action. INLD MLAs highlighted growing public fear due to rising violent crimes. Saini emphasized increased police presence and advanced technologies to enhance safety. The government's priority remains maintaining law and order.

State to create 1,000 posts for ex-Agniveers

The Maharashtra government has approved 1,000 supernumerary posts to employ former Agniveers nearing the end of their four-year stint in the Agnipath scheme, aiming to leverage their skills in government roles. A high-level committee will oversee this, determining allocations across various departments. This interim measure addresses job placement as formal rules for their integration remain pending.

Two workers die after being trapped in Nigdi BSNL duct; same spot claimed three lives last year

Two conservancy workers, Manoj Baburao Shinde, 26, and Amol Ashok Shinde, 19, died after being trapped in a BSNL duct in Nigdi Pradhikaran. Rescued by police, they were declared dead at YCM Hospital. This incident marks the fifth death at the site, raising serious safety concerns following previous similar tragedies. Investigations into the circumstances are ongoing.

House allotted to Haryana Speaker inside police complex raises questions of propriety

The Haryana government's decision to allocate a government house for Speaker Harvinder Kalyan inside a police complex has sparked controversy regarding its appropriateness, leading Kalyan to decline the offer due to potential disruptions and constitutional concerns. His request for temporary accommodation arose from his house needing renovation. The decision raises questions about maintaining separation between legislature and executive functions, as highlighted by legal experts.

Police seize sound systems at six spots, log 148 noise violations

Pune police seized sound systems at six locations during Eid processions for using prohibited plasma and pressure-mid equipment, initiating legal action in 148 cases exceeding noise limits. Over 1,000 inspections revealed violations, prompting discussions with Ganesh mandals regarding sound equipment use ahead of the Ganpati festival, where noise regulations will be enforced strictly.

Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann hands over job letters to 1,746 new constables

Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Thursday officially appointed 1,746 new constables to the Punjab Police, emphasizing a total of 13,092 recruits in four-and-a-half years and 3,298 more positions being filled. The government’s initiatives also include creating new inspector posts and actively combating drug issues. Mann criticized previous administrations for their failures, asserting his commitment to genuine public service.

Maharashtra clears ₹315 crore for shrine projects, Shivsrushti

The Maharashtra government approved ₹315 crore for developing Hindu shrines and Pune's Shivsrushti theme park. Key projects include ₹193.55 crore for conserving the 800-year-old Aundha Nagnath Temple and ₹72.49 crore for the 240-year-old Kalyaneshwar Temple. The funding supports preservation efforts, enhanced facilities, and the historical representation of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.

ED seizes ₹12.9 crore in assets in ₹160.55-crore SBI loan default probe

The Enforcement Directorate has seized assets worth ₹12.9 crore during money laundering investigations into Bilpower Limited, accused of a ₹160.55-crore bank loan default involving the State Bank of India. Searches revealed cash, jewellery, and bank accounts linked to the firm. The case originated from a CBI FIR and highlights serious financial misconduct within the company.

Wockhardt Hospital sets up first superspecialty OPD clinic at Kemps Corner

Wockhardt Hospital in Mumbai has launched a Superspeciality Outpatient Department (OPD) at Kemps Corner to enhance healthcare accessibility for South Mumbai patients. The 2,800-square-foot clinic offers specialist consultations and basic medical services, streamlining patient care. Dr. Chauhan emphasized that this initiative aims to integrate specialist expertise for improved diagnosis and treatment planning, potentially serving as a model for future expansions.

Repeat offender arrested after over 20 minor schoolgirls molested at tribal boarding school

A 59-year-old assistant cook at an Ashramshala in Thane was arrested for allegedly molesting over 20 minor girls, with a history of similar offenses prompting his transfer from another facility. The abuse surfaced when a Class 10 student reported an attempted assault. The accused faces charges under BNS and the Pocso Act as investigations continue.

Nandurbar teacher questioned over alleged role in MPSC drug inspector paper leak

A Nandurbar sports teacher, Mayur Thackeray, is being investigated in a drug inspector exam question paper leak linked to the Maharashtra Public Service Commission, as six arrests have been made, including a coaching center owner and a school principal. Thackeray denies involvement, claiming he had no knowledge of the paper’s distribution among the accused.

250-odd tourists from Maha still stuck, 61 yet to be traced

Sixty-one out of over 250 Maharashtra tourists remain unaccounted for after a recent glacial collapse in Nepal. The state government has requested assistance from the Ministry of External Affairs to facilitate their return. Most stranded tourists are from Mumbai and Pune, with some needing urgent airlifting. The situation is being closely monitored by officials and the chief minister.

Shinde announces BMC mayor power-sharing formula, catches BJP leaders off guard

MUMBAI: Deputy CM Eknath Shinde announced a power-sharing deal for the BMC mayor's position, stating the Shiv Sena would hold the post for 1.25 years after BJP's Ritu Tawde completes her term. This revelation surprised senior BJP leaders, revealing existing tensions within the alliance amid ongoing grievances from Shiv Sena members, particularly concerning deputy mayor Sanjay Ghadi.

UP’s population its biggest strength, not challenge: Yogi

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath emphasized the state's 25-crore population as a potential asset rather than a challenge, highlighting its demographic dividend at a Lok Bhawan event where he distributed funds to startups and released the UP Startup Policy 2026. Under his leadership since 2017, UP's startup count surged from 120 to over 24,000.

Ludhiana: Food supply employees call off 5-day strike after govt assurance

Food supplies inspectors and assistant food supply officers in Ludhiana ended a five-day strike on August 24, resuming duties after government assurances on addressing salary deductions and long-standing demands, including conveyance allowances and laptops for improved efficiency. The strike had disrupted operations across Punjab, affecting over 2,500 employees. Normal functioning will now resume following the positive government response.

Woman held for strangling husband after dispute over alleged affair in Bulandshahr

A 40-year-old woman, Preeti Kumari, was arrested for allegedly strangling her husband, Krishna Kumar, during a domestic dispute over her rumored affair. The incident in Bahlimpura village followed previous arguments about her relationship. A video surfaced showing the assault. Police confirmed strangulation as the cause of death following a post-mortem examination, and further investigations continue.

New lakes near Nepal, China border add to flood concerns

Scientists and disaster agencies are investigating the August 26 flash floods in Nepal, likely caused by an ice-rock avalanche, with a USGS update indicating a magnitude 5.2 landslide rather than an earthquake. Concurrently, threats from new lakes formed by debris flow necessitate vigilance. Experts emphasize the need for improved early warning systems and disaster preparedness in vulnerable regions.

UP Board urges schools to record APAAR IDs during registration, exam formalities

The UP Board has mandated schools to enter students' 12-digit APAAR IDs for classes 9-12 during academic registration to store academic records securely. Although not mandatory, principals are encouraged to ensure students generate these IDs. Additionally, the board has heightened scrutiny of date-of-birth correction requests to maintain accuracy and authenticity in records, emphasizing verifiable documentation.

Bittu flags poor upkeep of School of Eminence

BJP leader Ravneet Singh Bittu criticized the AAP government’s "education revolution" during his visit to the poorly maintained School of Eminence in Sector 32, revealing neglected sports facilities and a locked swimming pool. He urged transparency about maintenance expenditures while highlighting the discrepancy between government claims and the actual deteriorating conditions. Bittu emphasized that true educational improvement goes beyond mere publicity.

Mahoba drenched by 131.6 mm rain, tops rainfall chart

Mahoba, Uttar Pradesh, recorded 131.6 mm of rainfall in 24 hours, the highest in the state, as a delayed monsoon linked to El Niño continues. This surge brings the district's total rainfall since June to 730.4 mm, significantly above normal levels. Meanwhile, issues like waterlogging and drainage problems also arose, affecting local communities.

Ludhiana: Swindler uses ‘relative’ ruse to steal elderly woman’s gold earrings

In Hambran, a woman cleverly stole gold earrings from a 63-year-old by posing as a relative during a hug, escaping in a car with accomplices. Police have registered a case and suspect a gang targeting elderly women in Ludhiana. The investigation includes reviewing CCTV footage as similar crimes have been reported in the area.

‘Allegations serious’: HC seeks response from Punjab govt on ED letter

The Punjab and Haryana high court demanded responses from the Punjab government and central agencies regarding a PIL alleging senior officials' involvement in a corruption network involving cash-for-transfer postings and government tenders. The petition cites serious claims against individuals linked to the chief minister's office, urging an independent investigation. Background investigations highlighted in media reports and previous ED communications emphasize the gravity of the situation.

Ayaan Saifi fulfils father’s dream with India U-19 call-up

Ayaan Akram, son of former cricketer Akram Saifi, has been selected for the India U19 team after impressive performances, including being the highest wicket-taker in India with 37 wickets. His father’s struggles have fueled Ayaan’s ambition to succeed, viewing this opportunity against Australia U19 as a chance to fulfill a long-held family dream and inspire young cricketers.

Raksha Bandhan turns tragic for Ludhiana family: Young siblings die of snakebite

A tragic snakebite claimed the lives of siblings Jobanpreet Singh, 8, and Jaspreet Kaur, 6, in Bassian village as the family prepared for Raksha Bandhan. Sleeping outdoors due to heat, the children were bitten around 3 am. After deteriorating health, both were taken to a hospital, where they were declared dead. Mourning enveloped the village.

Employees’ statewide strike: Punjab grinds to a halt, public services disrupted, OPDs shut

Over three lakh government employees and 3.5 lakh pensioners across Punjab participated in a statewide strike, disrupting public services to demand overdue dearness allowance, implementation of the Old Pension Scheme, and other long-standing issues. The strike, backed by over 150 employee organizations, drew significant public support and sparked criticism from opposition parties urging the government to prioritize dialogue.

Government staffers’ strike cripples services across Punjab, Mann refuses to meet unions

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann canceled a meeting with protesting unions just before a statewide strike grounded government operations, causing significant public disruption. Over four lakh employees demonstrated, demanding overdue dearness allowance and pension scheme implementation. Unions vowed to escalate protests despite government threats of punitive action, marking ongoing tensions amid upcoming elections and financial constraints for the state.

Rift widens between Cong-NCP (SP) amid reunification talk

Speculation about a possible NCP faction reunification is straining relations between the Congress and NCP (SP). Congress leader Vijay Wadettiwar claimed Supriya Sule benefited from OBC certificates, prompting her denial and a promise to address the matter with party leadership. Wadettiwar later apologized, highlighting growing tensions amid NCP (SP)'s ties with the BJP and calls to remain with the INDIA bloc.

Woman killed as truck hits motorcycle in Pataudi

A speeding truck collided with a motorcycle near Khandewla Mor in Pataudi on Thursday, killing 50-year-old Rekha and critically injuring her son Jag Parvesh, 26, and his pregnant wife Pammi, 24. Rekha died instantly, while the couple was rushed to a hospital. The truck driver, Mohammad Fahim, was arrested shortly after the incident. An FIR has been filed.

Jewellery, foreign currency worth lakhs stolen from Ardee City house

A ground floor flat in Ardee City, Sector 52, was burglarized on Monday while the residents were at work, with thieves stealing valuables worth ₹30 lakh to ₹35 lakh, including gold and diamond jewelry. The police have no leads yet, as neighbors reported no suspicious activity. An FIR is registered under relevant theft laws as investigators search for clues.