{Punjab monsoon session} Aug 3 to 10 Don’t pass amendments sans consensus: Takht to Sikh MLAs

Ahead of the Punjab assembly's monsoon session, the Akal Takht urged Sikh MLAs and Speaker Kultar Singh Sandhawan to refrain from amending the Jaagat Jot Sri Guru Granth Sahib Satkar (Amendment) Act, 2026, without community consensus. The Akal Takht criticized the government for not consulting them prior to the law's enactment, highlighting a lack of dialogue over key objections since its passage.

Mangaluru courts deliver 20 year sentences in two sexual assault cases

Two Mangaluru courts sentenced five men to 20 years in prison for unrelated sexual assault cases. Four men received sentences for a 2018 gang rape, while Sonu Maclean Noronha was convicted for repeatedly assaulting a minor. Both rulings reflect serious violations under Indian law, highlighting ongoing societal issues surrounding sexual violence and child protection.

Spider-Man Brand New Day box office: Tom Holland film beats Dhurandhar in India

**Spider-Man: Brand New Day** has outperformed Shah Rukh Khan at the Indian box office, grossing ₹109 crore in just two days, including a record ₹60 crore opening. The film, starring Tom Holland, surpassed Avengers: Endgame’s previous benchmark. With strong international earnings expected, its opening weekend could reach up to $800 million globally, showcasing its significant impact on the franchise.

HC raps FDA over clean chit to Mantralaya, Vidhan Bhavan canteens

The Bombay High Court criticized the Maharashtra FDA for certifying government canteens at Mantralaya and Vidhan Bhawan as “98% compliant,” despite reports of poor hygiene. The court noted discrepancies in inspections between private and government eateries. Following its observations, the FDA agreed to suspend license actions against private establishments temporarily, allowing them time to rectify issues. This scrutiny comes amid ongoing efforts to improve food safety standards statewide.

CM defends Mekedatu as Centre seeks revisions

Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar defended the Mekedatu reservoir project, asserting it will serve Karnataka's drinking water and power needs without irrigation, despite the Centre's request for revisions. He emphasized that the scheme would benefit Tamil Nadu and pledged compliance with Supreme Court rulings. The project remains contentious, fueled by ongoing disputes between Karnataka and Tamil Nadu over shared water resources.

Safety lapses at ammunition factories must be eliminated, not just reduced: Defence production secy

Defence production secretary Sanjeev Kumar urged zero tolerance for accidents in explosives manufacturing, emphasizing strict enforcement of existing safety standards and increased use of technology at a Pune seminar. Recent incidents prompted a review, revealing that complacency, not a lack of standards, was to blame. To combat this, technology will enhance monitoring and compliance efforts.

Wildfires: why disposable BBQs are being banned from some parks and beaches

The UK is facing extreme wildfire risks this summer due to heatwaves and minimal rainfall, prompting bans on disposable BBQs in public parks. Fire services report that most wildfires start from human activity, particularly these BBQs, which create fire hazards and increase litter. For environmental safety, opting for plant-based meals is now the better choice.

Yogi, UP DGP hail SI Asmita Dey’s CWG gold, call it a golden chapter in Indian sport

UP Police sub-inspector Asmita Dey won a historic gold medal in the women’s 48-kg judo event at the Commonwealth Games 2026 in Glasgow, praised by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and DGP Rajeev Krishna for her extraordinary achievement, which symbolizes national pride and the spirit of India’s daughters. Dey is the first Indian judoka to earn this distinction.

Ex-army chief General Sharma dies at 96

Former army chief General Vishwa Nath Sharma passed away at 96, having served from 1988 to 1990. He was the younger brother of Major Som Nath Sharma, the first Param Vir Chakra recipient. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh expressed condolences, honoring Sharma's distinguished military career and legacy of service, which will inspire future generations.

AIP demands priority passage for fruit-laden trucks from Srinagar

The Awami Ittehad Party demands the urgent movement of fruit-laden trucks from Srinagar to India, emphasizing the fruit industry’s vital role in Kashmir's economy and livelihoods. AIP state secretary Sheikh Ashiq Ahmad stressed the need for smooth transport during harvest, calling for 24/7 clearance and dedicated corridors on the Srinagar-Jammu highway to prevent disruptions affecting farmers and traders.

Haryana-based syndicate behind cheating racket: Bains

Punjab Police have dismantled an interstate cheating ring linked to the Baba Farid University pharmacy exam, arresting 38 individuals. Education Minister Harjot Singh Bains criticized Haryana Police for inaction, revealing the use of advanced technology for cheating, including modified phones and hidden devices. This organized fraud has intensified scrutiny on the Punjab government amidst opposition calls for resignations over previous paper leak claims.

BMC panel points to lapses by contractor, K East ward staff in Sakinaka manhole death

A BMC committee attributed the July 2 death of a man in Sakinaka to negligence by both contractor and K East ward officials, highlighting gaps in safety measures during ongoing maintenance work. This contrasts with past inquiries favoring contractors alone. Congress leader Azmi urged swift public disclosure of the inquiry findings, calling the incident an administrative failure.

TISS defers convocation at eleventh hour; CJI was to be chief guest

The Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS) has postponed its 86th convocation, originally scheduled for August 2, due to security concerns linked to recent protests. Students received notification via email citing "unforeseen circumstances." The Progressive Students Forum criticized the decision, highlighting its impact on students' plans and demanding accountability. TISS pledged to support affected students while examining hardship requests.

PMPML leases vacant depot spaces to raise revenue

Pune Mahanagar Parivahan Mahamandal Ltd (PMPML) is launching a revenue generation initiative to address its ₹800 crore subsidy dependence by renting out underutilised assets across Pune and Pimpri Chinchwad. This strategy, expected to generate ₹3 crore annually, aims to enhance financial sustainability without burdening passengers and facilitate the better use of public infrastructure. PMPML's move is pivotal amid rising operational costs.

SAD seeks judicial inquiry into Barnala lathicharge, CBI probe into ‘paper leaks’

The Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) urged Punjab Governor Gulab Chand Kataria to initiate a judicial inquiry into the Barnala lathicharge and a CBI investigation into alleged paper leaks linked to the AAP government. SAD leaders, led by Sukhbir Singh Badal, demanded accountability for officials involved, amidst claims of job favoritism and police misuse in Punjab’s governance.

Kartarpur Corridor closure to continue as security concerns persist: Govt in LS

The Centre announced Friday that the Kartarpur Corridor will remain closed due to the current security situation, despite calls from Sikh organisations for its reopening. The visa-free corridor was suspended on May 7, 2025, following a terror attack. The agreement for the corridor, established in 2019 to honor Guru Nanak Dev's anniversary, had been extended in 2024.

‘Urgent repairs carried out by the contractor prompted us to call off evacuation’

A tragic collapse of Kohinoor Apartment in Bhiwandi on Thursday night resulted in at least 10 deaths, linked to faulty repairs after structural cracks appeared earlier. Residents halted evacuation, misled by the contractor's temporary fixes. Eyewitnesses cited inadequate support for weakened pillars, leading to the disaster. Many survivors now seek financial aid to rebuild their lives.

Strict action ordered over RTO fitness certificate lapses

The Pune state transport department has initiated a thorough investigation into significant irregularities in vehicle fitness certificate issuance under form 38A, following directives from Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik. This inquiry highlights numerous violations impacting road safety and precedes a broader crackdown on RTO corruption. A special committee revealed that many vehicles received certificates without compliance to safety regulations. Stricter standards for automated testing stations will be implemented to enhance vehicle safety and regulatory oversight.

Jakob Butturff net worth and family: Here's all we know after PBA champion dies

Jakob Butturff, an eight-time PBA Tour champion, passed away unexpectedly on July 31 at 32, confirmed by the PBA. With a remarkable career spanning over a decade, he participated in 214 events, securing 20 titles and earning over $1.02 million. He largely kept his family life private but indicated a relationship with Mya Marsh through social media.

BSF reservation benefits extend to ex-Agniveers

The Centre has granted reservation benefits to ex-Agniveers in the Border Security Force, allowing them 50% reservation in recruitment for Constable (General Duty) posts and exemption from certain tests. This follows the Agnipath scheme, aimed at modernizing military recruitment. The first batch of Agniveers will retire before November 2026, eligible for various forces.

Pre-GST tax disputes: Punjab extends OTS scheme till Sept 30

The Punjab government has extended its One-Time Settlement (OTS)-2025 scheme for pre-GST tax disputes until September 30, following nearly 9,800 applications and ₹167.23 crore collected so far. Finance minister Harpal Singh Cheema emphasized this final opportunity for eligible taxpayers to resolve disputes while highlighting ongoing enforcement against tax defaulters. The initiative supports the Supreme Court's SAMADHAN program, with several disputes already resolved.

Govt clears floating solar capacity boost, PM-Kisan extension

NEW DELHI: The Union Cabinet, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, approved significant measures for farmer welfare, sports infrastructure, and clean energy, including the extension of the PM-KISAN scheme until FY31 with ₹3.15 lakh crore allocated. The Cabinet also cleared the PM-SSY scheme, targeting 5,000 MW of floating solar capacity by 2031, set to create jobs and reduce emissions.

Oppn stages skit in parl complex over Ram Temple case, BJP hits back

Opposition parties intensified their protest over alleged donations theft at the Ayodhya Ram Temple, enacting a skit in Parliament. The BJP countered, accusing them of denigrating Hindu faith while claiming swift government actions against those involved. Critics condemned the protests, urging enforcement of guidelines to maintain decorum, highlighting ongoing tensions within Parliament and public sentiment on religious issues.

Lawyers’ strike to resume if Monday talks fail: JAC

The Joint Action Committee of Bar Associations in Punjab, Haryana, and Chandigarh announced a temporary one-day resumption of legal work on Monday to facilitate a meeting with the Chief Justice of India regarding the controversial Legal Aid Defence Counsel System policy. If discussions fail to yield a complete rollback, agitation will resume Tuesday, shifting to Delhi.

LU convocation: Over 1.25L students get degrees, 111 of them bag 204 medals

Over 1.25 lakh students graduated at Lucknow University's 69th convocation, with 111 students earning 204 medals. Governor Anandiben Patel presided, emphasizing degree accessibility via DigiLocker and addressing concerns about men’s lower performance. Toppers shared their inspiring stories of resilience and hard work, highlighting the diverse challenges they overcame along the way to success in their academic pursuits.

MADC begins next phase of India’s first offshore airport

The Maharashtra Airport Development Company (MADC) has invited bids for a consultant to conduct a feasibility study for a greenfield offshore international airport at Kore, Palghar, with bids opening on September 3. This airport, India’s first offshore facility, will connect to Mumbai via a 4.75-km sea link and address future capacity needs by 2050.

City schools purge junk food after FDA order

Schools in Mumbai are removing junk food from canteens following an FDA directive to eliminate items high in fat, salt, and sugar. This overhaul includes banning popular snacks like vada pav and burgers, with a push for healthier options and home-cooked meals. Background: The initiative aims to promote healthier eating habits among students and support nutritional education.

Sandhu seeks update on National Quantum Mission progress in RS

Rajya Sabha MP Satnam Singh Sandhu questioned the Union government on the National Quantum Mission's progress, which began in 2023. In response, Minister Jitendra Singh noted that 86 institutions are engaged in research and development, with collaborations including Japan. The mission focuses on building skills in quantum technologies and supports talent via various fellowships, enhancing India’s capabilities in this field.

Students stage ‘plate morcha’ over delays in mid-meal scheme

Students and parents in Thane and Palghar protested with a ‘plate morcha’ due to delays in food supplies under the PM-Poshan scheme, demanding immediate action from the state government. Activists revealed significant shortages, resulting in schools relying on credit for essentials, while parents called for accountability and a monitoring system to prevent future delays.

Forest dept wages legal battle to recover 1,500 acres in Palghar

MUMBAI: The state forest department is legally contesting the transfer of 1,500 acres of forest land in Palghar to the Lele family after a Maharashtra Revenue Tribunal ruling. The Supreme Court petition seeks to stay the decision, claiming the department was denied representation. The land, formerly royal grant, was state-acquired in the 1960s. Additionally, a related land transfer in Thane is currently on hold.