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A political debate is raging in India about the rise in sugar prices, which the government is attributing to festive demand and lower sugarcane yields, even as sugar-linked stocks hit 52-week highs on Monday (Aug 24). Opposition parties such as the Congress and the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) have blamed the rise in sugar prices on the use of sugarcane-derived products to produce ethanol for blending in petrol. The E20 petrol programme, under which 20 per cent ethanol is blended with 80 per cent petrol, was a planned policy rollout rather than a direct consequence of fuel import disruptions. However, India's energy security concerns were complicated by the Iran-US war, the Russia-Ukraine war and disruptions to energy transhipments through the Strait of Hormuz. The situation is increasingly looking unsustainable, with the government stepping in to allow duty-free imports of sugar to address concerns over tight supplies.<h2>Is the diversion of sugar for ethanol blending in petrol the real cause of sugar price hikes?</h2>India does use sugar and sugarcane byproducts for its ethanol blending programme. Sugarcane-based feedstocks for ethanol include direct cane juice, syrup, and B-heavy and C-heavy molasses.But recent reports say that other sources such as maize and surplus rice from the Food Corporation of India (FCI), as well as damaged foodgrains, account for the larger share of ethanol production. Around 32 per cent of the ethanol supplied to oil marketing companies for blending with petrol comes from sugarcane-based feedstocks, while the grain-based share is larger, at roughly 68 per cent.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/e10-or-e20-should-consumers-get-a-choice-1786974307957/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/e10-or-e20-should-consumers-get-a-choice-1786974307957/embed</a><h2>Govt pushes back on claims linking ethanol blending with sugar price rise</h2>India's Ministry of Consumer Affairs has repeatedly said it is incorrect to attribute the recent increase in sugar prices to the diversion of sugar for ethanol production. The share of sugar diverted for ethanol fell from 12 per cent in 2022-23 to 9 per cent in 2025-26, per the government. Nearly three-fourths of India's ethanol production now comes from grains, particularly maize.The government insisted that lower-than-expected domestic production of sugar is to blame for the rising prices. Sugar production during the current season is expected to be around 30.6 million tonnes, against an initial estimate of around 34.3 million. Production was affected by Red Rot and Top Borer diseases in sugarcane, as well as waterlogging caused by excessive rainfall. Festive-season demand, tighter global supplies and speculation and hoarding are adding to the pressure.International sugar prices have also risen by more than 16 per cent in recent months, adding to the pressure on domestic prices. The West Indian Sugar Mills Association (WISMA) and other industry representatives have said declining sugarcane output and stockpiling are contributing to the current crisis, rather than ethanol blending alone.'Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/e20-petrol-row-puri-says-only-four-contaminated-samples-found-rahul-gandhi-steps-up-attack-1786122960349">E20 petrol row: Puri says only four contaminated samples found, Rahul Gandhi steps up attack</a><h2>Nothing new: Sugar prices have always been politicised</h2>With several politicians directly having stakes in the sugar industry, price fluctuations have always been a political issue. The AAP and Congress have seen an opportunity to accuse the government of diverting sugar towards ethanol for the E20 blending programme, arguing that this has reduced sugar availability and contributed to the spike.It should be noted that, in the past few years, millions of tonnes of sugar have been diverted towards ethanol in the food-versus-fuel trade-off, in which it can be more profitable to use the commodity in the energy industry.This season, around 3 million tonnes of sugar are estimated to have been diverted towards ethanol. But the brighter side for farmers and mills is that higher sugar prices can make sugar production more profitable. The government has also said that diverting surplus sugar towards ethanol has helped improve the financial health of sugar mills and facilitated timely payments to farmers. As of August 20, 97 per cent of sugarcane dues for the 2025-26 season had been paid.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/what-s-behind-rising-sugar-prices-in-india-government-breaks-silence-says-ethano-not-to-blamel-1787370008114">What's behind rising sugar prices in India? Government breaks silence, says 'ethanol...'</a><h2>The stock price spikes of sugar-linked firms</h2>Sugar stocks rallied sharply on Monday, with several companies hitting their 52-week highs. Shares of Bajaj Hindusthan Sugar, Avadh Sugar &amp; Energy, Dalmia Bharat Sugar and Industries, Dhampur Sugar Mills, Dwarikesh Sugar Industries, Magadh Sugar &amp; Energy, Mawana Sugars, Ponni Sugars, Ugar Sugar Works and Uttam Sugar Mills all hit their respective 52-week highs. Some stocks rose by as much as 12 per cent in intraday trade, reflecting investor optimism over the sector's near-term outlook amid rising sugar prices and tighter domestic supplies.The rally is supply-and-demand driven, particularly after the government tightened stockholding limits. Sugar mills may also shift their preference towards sugar production over ethanol as higher sugar prices improve returns.The government has assured consumers that there are enough sugar stocks to meet domestic demand, yet it has also allowed duty-free imports of 1 million tonnes of raw sugar until October 31. The move highlights concerns over tight supplies ahead of the festive season.The government has also taken measures such as imposing a 400-tonne stock limit on sugar dealers from August 1 to November 30, while bulk consumers will not be allowed to hold sugar stocks exceeding 15 days of consumption from September 1. These measures are aimed at preventing hoarding and artificial shortages.

India's sugar prices are rising amid festive demand and lower production. The political debate is continuing on whether the price rise has to do with  E20 ethanol blending in petrol. The government is pushing back

A political debate is raging in India about the rise in sugar prices, which the government is attributing to festive demand and lower sugarcane yields, even as sugar-linked stocks hit 52-week highs on Monday (Aug 24). Opposition parties such as the Congress and the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) have blamed the rise in sugar prices on the use of sugarcane-derived products to produce ethanol for blending in petrol. The E20 petrol programme, under which 20 per cent ethanol is blended with 80 per cent petrol, was a planned policy rollout rather than a direct consequence of fuel import disruptions. However, India's energy security concerns were complicated by the Iran-US war, the Russia-Ukraine war and disruptions to energy transhipments through the Strait of Hormuz. The situation is increasingly looking unsustainable, with the government stepping in to allow duty-free imports of sugar to address concerns over tight supplies. Is the diversion of sugar for ethanol blending in petrol the real cause of sugar price hikes? India does use sugar and sugarcane byproducts for its ethanol blending programme. Sugarcane-based feedstocks for ethanol include direct cane juice, syrup, and B-heavy and C-heavy molasses. But recent reports say that other sources such as maize and surplus rice from the Food Corporation of India (FCI), as well as damaged foodgrains, account for the larger share of ethanol production. Around 32 per cent of the ethanol supplied to oil marketing companies for blending with petrol comes from sugarcane-based feedstocks, while the grain-based share is larger, at roughly 68 per cent. https://www.wionews.com/videos/e10-or-e20-should-consumers-get-a-choice-1786974307957/embed Govt pushes back on claims linking ethanol blending with sugar price rise India's Ministry of Consumer Affairs has repeatedly said it is incorrect to attribute the recent increase in sugar prices to the diversion of sugar for ethanol production. The share of sugar diverted for ethanol fell from 12 per cent in 2022-23 to 9 per cent in 2025-26, per the government. Nearly three-fourths of India's ethanol production now comes from grains, particularly maize. The government insisted that lower-than-expected domestic production of sugar is to blame for the rising prices. Sugar production during the current season is expected to be around 30.6 million tonnes, against an initial estimate of around 34.3 million. Production was affected by Red Rot and Top Borer diseases in sugarcane, as well as waterlogging caused by excessive rainfall. Festive-season demand, tighter global supplies and speculation and hoarding are adding to the pressure. International sugar prices have also risen by more than 16 per cent in recent months, adding to the pressure on domestic prices. The West Indian Sugar Mills Association (WISMA) and other industry representatives have said declining sugarcane output and stockpiling are contributing to the current crisis, rather than ethanol blending alone.' Also read: E20 petrol row: Puri says only four contaminated samples found, Rahul Gandhi steps up attack Nothing new: Sugar prices have always been politicised With several politicians directly having stakes in the sugar industry, price fluctuations have always been a political issue. The AAP and Congress have seen an opportunity to accuse the government of diverting sugar towards ethanol for the E20 blending programme, arguing that this has reduced sugar availability and contributed to the spike. It should be noted that, in the past few years, millions of tonnes of sugar have been diverted towards ethanol in the food-versus-fuel trade-off, in which it can be more profitable to use the commodity in the energy industry. This season, around 3 million tonnes of sugar are estimated to have been diverted towards ethanol. But the brighter side for farmers and mills is that higher sugar prices can make sugar production more profitable. The government has also said that diverting surplus sugar towards ethanol has helped improve the financial health of sugar mills and facilitated timely payments to farmers. As of August 20, 97 per cent of sugarcane dues for the 2025-26 season had been paid. Also read: What's behind rising sugar prices in India? Government breaks silence, says 'ethanol...' The stock price spikes of sugar-linked firms Sugar stocks rallied sharply on Monday, with several companies hitting their 52-week highs. Shares of Bajaj Hindusthan Sugar, Avadh Sugar & Energy, Dalmia Bharat Sugar and Industries, Dhampur Sugar Mills, Dwarikesh Sugar Industries, Magadh Sugar & Energy, Mawana Sugars, Ponni Sugars, Ugar Sugar Works and Uttam Sugar Mills all hit their respective 52-week highs. Some stocks rose by as much as 12 per cent in intraday trade, reflecting investor optimism over the sector's near-term outlook amid rising sugar prices and tighter domestic supplies. The rally is supply-and-demand driven, particularly after the government tightened stockholding limits. Sugar mills may also shift their preference towards sugar production over ethanol as higher sugar prices improve returns. The government has assured consumers that there are enough sugar stocks to meet domestic demand, yet it has also allowed duty-free imports of 1 million tonnes of raw sugar until October 31. The move highlights concerns over tight supplies ahead of the festive season. The government has also taken measures such as imposing a 400-tonne stock limit on sugar dealers from August 1 to November 30, while bulk consumers will not be allowed to hold sugar stocks exceeding 15 days of consumption from September 1. These measures are aimed at preventing hoarding and artificial shortages.

India's sugar prices are rising amid festive demand and lower production. The political debate is continuing on whether the price rise has to do with &nbsp;E20 ethanol blending in petrol. The government is pushing back

India's sugar-linked stocks soar to 52-week highs even as govt inisists rising prices, shortage not linked to ethanol blending for E20 petrol

Ahead of Chinese President Xi Jinping's possible visit to India for the BRICS Summit in September, India's national security advisor Ajit Doval arrived in Beijing on a crucial two-day visit with both countries eyeing a reset in their bilateral ties. Doval and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi will hold the 25th round of special representatives' talks on the dispute over the India-China border spanning three thousand four hundred and eighty eight kilometres.&nbsp;During this visit, Doval will also call on China's Vice President Han Zheng. While relations between New Delhi and Beijing had come under severe strain after the 2020 Galwan Valley clash, both sides have taken steps to stabilise ties. For instance, direct flights between India and China have resumed and the Kailash Mansarovar yatra has restarted. The last round of talks between Doval and Wang took place in New Delhi in August 2025. Back then, they reiterated the importance of maintaining peace and tranquility in the border areas to promote overall development of the bilateral relationship.&nbsp;On that occasion, they also agreed to re-open trade through the three designated trading points of Lipulekh pass, Shipki La pass and Nathu La pass and facilitate trade and investment flows. Doval's visit also assumes significance as it may lay the groundwork for Xi's potential visit to New Delhi for the BRICS summit next month where he can meet PM Modi. Now, the two leaders last met in China's Tianjin in August last year on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation Summit.&nbsp;Back then, PM Modi affirmed that ties between the two countries are heading in a positive direction. Prior to that, PM Modi met Xi in October 2024 on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit in Russia's Kazan. It is worth noting that seven years have elapsed since Xi Jinping's last visit to India. Have a look at these visuals from October 2019. As the Chinese President arrived in Chennai for a Summit with PM Modi, he was welcomed by traditional dancers and musicians. The two leaders met in Tamil Nadu's Mahabalipuram, which is known for its historic temples and architecture. Adorning a traditional Tamil attire, PM Modi took Xi on a tour around UNESCO world heritage-listed monuments in this town.&nbsp;Xi who was dressed in a white shirt and dark trousers watched an Indian cultural show alongside PM Modi. On the next day, both leaders held talks in Mahabalipuram itself as part of their summit. Now, friction between both countries have been brewing over Arunachal Pradesh as well. Earlier in August, India rejected China's criticism of its decision to formally identify 27 places in Arunachal Pradesh on official maps.&nbsp;New Delhi stressed that the state is an inalienable and integral part of India and nothing can change this indisputable reality. Recently, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar made India's position amply clear. He emphasised that peace and tranquility in border areas is a pre-requisite for good relations between India and China.

Ajit Doval visits Beijing for India-China border talks as ties improve ahead of Xi Jinping's possible India visit for the BRICS summit

Ahead of Chinese President Xi Jinping's possible visit to India for the BRICS Summit in September, India's national security advisor Ajit Doval arrived in Beijing on a crucial two-day visit with both countries eyeing a reset in their bilateral ties. Doval and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi will hold the 25th round of special representatives' talks on the dispute over the India-China border spanning three thousand four hundred and eighty eight kilometres. During this visit, Doval will also call on China's Vice President Han Zheng. While relations between New Delhi and Beijing had come under severe strain after the 2020 Galwan Valley clash, both sides have taken steps to stabilise ties. For instance, direct flights between India and China have resumed and the Kailash Mansarovar yatra has restarted. The last round of talks between Doval and Wang took place in New Delhi in August 2025. Back then, they reiterated the importance of maintaining peace and tranquility in the border areas to promote overall development of the bilateral relationship. On that occasion, they also agreed to re-open trade through the three designated trading points of Lipulekh pass, Shipki La pass and Nathu La pass and facilitate trade and investment flows. Doval's visit also assumes significance as it may lay the groundwork for Xi's potential visit to New Delhi for the BRICS summit next month where he can meet PM Modi. Now, the two leaders last met in China's Tianjin in August last year on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation Summit. Back then, PM Modi affirmed that ties between the two countries are heading in a positive direction. Prior to that, PM Modi met Xi in October 2024 on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit in Russia's Kazan. It is worth noting that seven years have elapsed since Xi Jinping's last visit to India. Have a look at these visuals from October 2019. As the Chinese President arrived in Chennai for a Summit with PM Modi, he was welcomed by traditional dancers and musicians. The two leaders met in Tamil Nadu's Mahabalipuram, which is known for its historic temples and architecture. Adorning a traditional Tamil attire, PM Modi took Xi on a tour around UNESCO world heritage-listed monuments in this town. Xi who was dressed in a white shirt and dark trousers watched an Indian cultural show alongside PM Modi. On the next day, both leaders held talks in Mahabalipuram itself as part of their summit. Now, friction between both countries have been brewing over Arunachal Pradesh as well. Earlier in August, India rejected China's criticism of its decision to formally identify 27 places in Arunachal Pradesh on official maps. New Delhi stressed that the state is an inalienable and integral part of India and nothing can change this indisputable reality. Recently, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar made India's position amply clear. He emphasised that peace and tranquility in border areas is a pre-requisite for good relations between India and China.

Ajit Doval's Beijing visit aims to strengthen India-China ties and prepare for Xi Jinping's possible India visit for the BRICS summit

Gravitas | Ajit Doval to hold border talks in China, all eyes on Xi's possible India visit

Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy on Monday returned to Hyderabad after the Ministry of External Affairs denied clearance for his proposed trip to Boston, US. In a press conference on Monday, he accused the Central Government of "insulting" 4 crore people of Telangana.&nbsp;"We had informed the MEA about the visit. The CMO had informed the MEA about the purpose of the visit. The objective was to promote Telangana as a sports and investment hub and bring world-class universities to the state. MEA examined the proposal and informed that, for political reason visit was declined," the Chief Minister said Monday."This is not the permission denial to Revanth Reddy but a disrespect toward the Telangana people. It's because of Gujarat supremacy. It is like obstructing Telangana's growth and development," Reddy said, addressing a press conference hours after returning to Hyderabad from his UK visit.He said that the decision was against the spirit of cooperative federalism. He framed this as a conspiracy of Gujarat against Telangana."What is the political angle - Modi is BJP, Revanth Reddy is Congress, Modi is Gujarat, Revanth is Telangana, is this the 'political angle' which they mentioned while denying the permission? It is totally against federal Cooperatism. Gujarat is conspiring against Telangana, I condemn it," he said.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-clarifies-leader-media-arrangements-sergio-gor-remarks-1787570558751">India calls leader media arrangements ‘normal practice’ after Sergio Gor remarks</a><h2>Why was Telangana CM Revanth Reddy's US visit clearance denied?</h2>The Telangana Chief Minister was cleared exclusively for the United Kingdom leg of the tour. Reddy was in London for three days and completed his scheduled meetings and academic arrangements. However, he was denied political clearance for his visit to the US. MEA spokesperson claimed that the proposed purpose of the visit does not match the itinerary of the visit.&nbsp;"Let me say that the visits of chief ministers, as indeed those of other dignitaries, are assessed by the Ministry of External Affairs in order to accord political clearance. The programme proposed in such cases should be appropriate to the office held and the purpose of the visit. In this particular case, that was not so with respect to the United States. Therefore, the clearance was denied and not given. Incidentally, let me also tell you that clearance was given for his visit to the United Kingdom," the MEA spokesperson had said last week.Reddy had planned a visit to the campuses of Harvard University and MIT on August 24, followed by a visit to the North-Eastern campus and meeting with a team of Virginia Tech University in Boston on August 25the North-Eastern campus and meeting with a team from Virginia Tech University in Boston on August 25. His itinerary also included a meet-and-greet event with the Indian Overseas Congress in New York on August 26, before returning to India on August 30.&nbsp;

Telangana CM Revanth Reddy returned to Hyderabad after the MEA denied political clearance for his proposed US visit, citing concerns over the itinerary.

Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy on Monday returned to Hyderabad after the Ministry of External Affairs denied clearance for his proposed trip to Boston, US. In a press conference on Monday, he accused the Central Government of "insulting" 4 crore people of Telangana. "We had informed the MEA about the visit. The CMO had informed the MEA about the purpose of the visit. The objective was to promote Telangana as a sports and investment hub and bring world-class universities to the state. MEA examined the proposal and informed that, for political reason visit was declined," the Chief Minister said Monday. "This is not the permission denial to Revanth Reddy but a disrespect toward the Telangana people. It's because of Gujarat supremacy. It is like obstructing Telangana's growth and development," Reddy said, addressing a press conference hours after returning to Hyderabad from his UK visit. He said that the decision was against the spirit of cooperative federalism. He framed this as a conspiracy of Gujarat against Telangana. "What is the political angle - Modi is BJP, Revanth Reddy is Congress, Modi is Gujarat, Revanth is Telangana, is this the 'political angle' which they mentioned while denying the permission? It is totally against federal Cooperatism. Gujarat is conspiring against Telangana, I condemn it," he said. Also Read: India calls leader media arrangements ‘normal practice’ after Sergio Gor remarks Why was Telangana CM Revanth Reddy's US visit clearance denied? The Telangana Chief Minister was cleared exclusively for the United Kingdom leg of the tour. Reddy was in London for three days and completed his scheduled meetings and academic arrangements. However, he was denied political clearance for his visit to the US. MEA spokesperson claimed that the proposed purpose of the visit does not match the itinerary of the visit. "Let me say that the visits of chief ministers, as indeed those of other dignitaries, are assessed by the Ministry of External Affairs in order to accord political clearance. The programme proposed in such cases should be appropriate to the office held and the purpose of the visit. In this particular case, that was not so with respect to the United States. Therefore, the clearance was denied and not given. Incidentally, let me also tell you that clearance was given for his visit to the United Kingdom," the MEA spokesperson had said last week. Reddy had planned a visit to the campuses of Harvard University and MIT on August 24, followed by a visit to the North-Eastern campus and meeting with a team of Virginia Tech University in Boston on August 25the North-Eastern campus and meeting with a team from Virginia Tech University in Boston on August 25. His itinerary also included a meet-and-greet event with the Indian Overseas Congress in New York on August 26, before returning to India on August 30.

Telangana CM Revanth Reddy returned to Hyderabad after the MEA denied political clearance for his proposed US visit, citing concerns over the itinerary.

'Insult' to 4 crore people of Telangana: Why CM Revanth Reddy's US visit clearance was denied

The US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) on Monday proposed raising the fee for certain H-1B visa applications to $103,265. The proposal that was posted in the Federal Register on Monday would turn the controversial $100,000 H-1B payment introduced by the Donald Trump administration last year into a formal regulatory requirement.&nbsp;&nbsp;The proposed rule will now enter a 30-day public comment period, after which DHS could finalise it by the end of the year. The move comes amid growing uncertainty around the H-1B programme, particularly for Indian professionals who account for the largest share of H-1B beneficiaries.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-sets-stage-for-new-sanctions-unveiling-says-iran-is-completely-collapsing-1787581553591">Trump sets stage for new sanctions unveiling, says Iran is ‘completely collapsing’</a>&nbsp;The proposed $103,265 charge follows Trump’s 2025 proclamation that imposed a $100,000 payment for certain new H-1B petitions. Although that proclamation is due to expire in September, it instructed DHS to pursue regulations that would make the payment permanent.&nbsp;The fee has already become the subject of a legal battle. On June 8, 2026, the US District Court for the District of Massachusetts vacated agency guidance implementing the $100,000 payment requirement in State of California v. Mullin.&nbsp;DHS challenged the decision and sought a stay from the US Court of Appeals for the First Circuit.&nbsp;The First Circuit rejected the government’s request on July 24. DHS said it disagrees with the ruling but will comply with the court’s order while it considers its next steps. The department has also made clear that if the court order is eventually lifted, it still intends to collect the payment.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-to-enter-new-phase-in-iran-war-very-soon-says-house-speaker-mike-johnson-1787516303936">‘We took the head off the snake’: US to enter ‘new phase’ in Iran war very soon, says Speaker Mike Johnson</a>&nbsp;Meanwhile, the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has already received enough petitions to reach the congressionally mandated 65,000 regular H-1B cap and 20,000 master’s cap for fiscal year 2027. The proposed fee is therefore arriving alongside a broader tightening of the H-1B system, which has become increasingly difficult for employers and prospective migrants to navigate.&nbsp;&nbsp;For Indian professionals, the proposed fee adds to a series of changes affecting the traditional route from education and employment in the US to long-term residency. The H-1B programme has historically been a major pathway for Indian engineers, technology workers, researchers, financial professionals, and healthcare workers seeking employment in the US. But higher costs, tighter selection rules, and greater scrutiny are making the route more selective and unpredictable.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-orchestrating-sabotage-attacks-at-european-arms-plants-to-sow-discord-report-1787511138908">Russia orchestrating sabotage attacks at European arms plants to sow discord: Report</a>&nbsp;India-based IT consulting companies whose business models rely heavily on sending employees to US client sites are already facing the heat.&nbsp;&nbsp;The proposed End H-1B Visa Abuse Act of 2026 could add another layer of restrictions if enacted. The bill would call for a three-year pause on new H-1B visas, reduce the annual cap from 65,000 to 25,000 and introduce a minimum annual salary threshold of $200,000.&nbsp;The shift is important for Indians because they account for more than 70 per cent of all H-1B visa beneficiaries. The US Citizenship and Immigration Services approved 399,402 H-1B petitions in 2024, out of which Indian-born beneficiaries claimed 71 per cent.&nbsp;More than 5.2 million people of Indian origin live in the US, according to recent estimates based on US Census data.

The proposed rule will now enter a 30-day public comment period, after which DHS could finalise it by the end of the year. The move comes amid growing uncertainty around the H-1B programme, particularly for Indian professionals who account for the largest share of H-1B beneficiaries.

The US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) on Monday proposed raising the fee for certain H-1B visa applications to $103,265. The proposal that was posted in the Federal Register on Monday would turn the controversial $100,000 H-1B payment introduced by the Donald Trump administration last year into a formal regulatory requirement. The proposed rule will now enter a 30-day public comment period, after which DHS could finalise it by the end of the year. The move comes amid growing uncertainty around the H-1B programme, particularly for Indian professionals who account for the largest share of H-1B beneficiaries. Also Read: Trump sets stage for new sanctions unveiling, says Iran is ‘completely collapsing’ The proposed $103,265 charge follows Trump’s 2025 proclamation that imposed a $100,000 payment for certain new H-1B petitions. Although that proclamation is due to expire in September, it instructed DHS to pursue regulations that would make the payment permanent. The fee has already become the subject of a legal battle. On June 8, 2026, the US District Court for the District of Massachusetts vacated agency guidance implementing the $100,000 payment requirement in State of California v. Mullin. DHS challenged the decision and sought a stay from the US Court of Appeals for the First Circuit. The First Circuit rejected the government’s request on July 24. DHS said it disagrees with the ruling but will comply with the court’s order while it considers its next steps. The department has also made clear that if the court order is eventually lifted, it still intends to collect the payment. Also Read: ‘We took the head off the snake’: US to enter ‘new phase’ in Iran war very soon, says Speaker Mike Johnson Meanwhile, the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has already received enough petitions to reach the congressionally mandated 65,000 regular H-1B cap and 20,000 master’s cap for fiscal year 2027. The proposed fee is therefore arriving alongside a broader tightening of the H-1B system, which has become increasingly difficult for employers and prospective migrants to navigate. For Indian professionals, the proposed fee adds to a series of changes affecting the traditional route from education and employment in the US to long-term residency. The H-1B programme has historically been a major pathway for Indian engineers, technology workers, researchers, financial professionals, and healthcare workers seeking employment in the US. But higher costs, tighter selection rules, and greater scrutiny are making the route more selective and unpredictable. Also Read: Russia orchestrating sabotage attacks at European arms plants to sow discord: Report India-based IT consulting companies whose business models rely heavily on sending employees to US client sites are already facing the heat. The proposed End H-1B Visa Abuse Act of 2026 could add another layer of restrictions if enacted. The bill would call for a three-year pause on new H-1B visas, reduce the annual cap from 65,000 to 25,000 and introduce a minimum annual salary threshold of $200,000. The shift is important for Indians because they account for more than 70 per cent of all H-1B visa beneficiaries. The US Citizenship and Immigration Services approved 399,402 H-1B petitions in 2024, out of which Indian-born beneficiaries claimed 71 per cent. More than 5.2 million people of Indian origin live in the US, according to recent estimates based on US Census data.

The proposed rule will now enter a 30-day public comment period, after which DHS could finalise it by the end of the year. The move comes amid growing uncertainty around the H-1B programme, particularly for Indian professionals who account for the largest share of H-1B beneficiaries.

Trump admin proposes hiking H-1B visa fee to over $100,000, Indians brace for impact

Supreme Court judge Justice Prasanna B Varale has raised serious concerns over the declining education budget and the closure of Marathi-medium schools in Maharashtra, questioning whether a small fraction of the money allocated for the Nashik Kumbh could have helped prevent the closures. Speaking at the inauguration of smart classes at a high school in Maharashtra’s Dhule district, Justice Varale said that even 0.1 per cent of the expenditure earmarked for the Nashik Kumbh could have helped save 100 to 125 Marathi-medium schools from shutting down.&nbsp;The government, he pointed out, has allocated between Rs 32,000 crore and Rs 34,000 crore for the Kumbh Mela, while Rs 11,000 crore has been allocated for corridor projects. He said that spending just 0.1 per cent of the Kumbh allocation, approximately Rs 32 crore, could have helped save 100 to 125 Marathi-medium schools across Maharashtra that have already closed. Justice Varale also spoke from personal experience, recalling that he completed his schooling up to Class 10 in municipal and Zilla Parishad Marathi-medium schools. He said studying in a regional-language school did not limit his career and instead helped broaden his perspective.&nbsp;"I have expressed what I truly feel in my heart," Justice Varale was later quoted as saying to NDTV. "Children are the future of the country... Essential facilities must be provided for children in schools. Primary education and healthcare are fundamental rights of every citizen," he added in an exclusive interview.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/gurugram-issues-work-from-home-advisory-for-august-25-amid-waterlogging-and-traffic-jams-1787577149044">Gurugram issues work-from-home advisory for August 25 amid waterlogging and traffic jams</a>&nbsp;Earlier, Justice Varale had expressed concern over the state of education funding, noting that despite an increasing student population, the education budget has continued to shrink instead of rising. He pointed out that the allocation has failed to reach even the 13 per cent mark for several years. He also highlighted the poor condition of schools in rural areas, referring to a tragic incident involving a school linked to a religious institution. Three female students who were reportedly forced to sleep on the floor because of inadequate facilities died after being bitten by snakes.&nbsp;Justice Varale contrasted such incidents with the substantial funds being allocated to large-scale events and infrastructure projects. He questioned whether a portion of such spending could instead be directed towards providing basic facilities and protecting schools that serve children, particularly in rural and Marathi-speaking communities. His remarks have drawn attention to the broader debate over education funding, the future of Marathi-medium schools and the priorities behind large public expenditures in Maharashtra.

Justice Prasanna B Varale flags Maharashtra’s shrinking education budget and Marathi school closures, comparing school funding with Nashik Kumbh spending

Supreme Court judge Justice Prasanna B Varale has raised serious concerns over the declining education budget and the closure of Marathi-medium schools in Maharashtra, questioning whether a small fraction of the money allocated for the Nashik Kumbh could have helped prevent the closures. Speaking at the inauguration of smart classes at a high school in Maharashtra’s Dhule district, Justice Varale said that even 0.1 per cent of the expenditure earmarked for the Nashik Kumbh could have helped save 100 to 125 Marathi-medium schools from shutting down. The government, he pointed out, has allocated between Rs 32,000 crore and Rs 34,000 crore for the Kumbh Mela, while Rs 11,000 crore has been allocated for corridor projects. He said that spending just 0.1 per cent of the Kumbh allocation, approximately Rs 32 crore, could have helped save 100 to 125 Marathi-medium schools across Maharashtra that have already closed. Justice Varale also spoke from personal experience, recalling that he completed his schooling up to Class 10 in municipal and Zilla Parishad Marathi-medium schools. He said studying in a regional-language school did not limit his career and instead helped broaden his perspective. "I have expressed what I truly feel in my heart," Justice Varale was later quoted as saying to NDTV. "Children are the future of the country... Essential facilities must be provided for children in schools. Primary education and healthcare are fundamental rights of every citizen," he added in an exclusive interview. Also Read: Gurugram issues work-from-home advisory for August 25 amid waterlogging and traffic jams Earlier, Justice Varale had expressed concern over the state of education funding, noting that despite an increasing student population, the education budget has continued to shrink instead of rising. He pointed out that the allocation has failed to reach even the 13 per cent mark for several years. He also highlighted the poor condition of schools in rural areas, referring to a tragic incident involving a school linked to a religious institution. Three female students who were reportedly forced to sleep on the floor because of inadequate facilities died after being bitten by snakes. Justice Varale contrasted such incidents with the substantial funds being allocated to large-scale events and infrastructure projects. He questioned whether a portion of such spending could instead be directed towards providing basic facilities and protecting schools that serve children, particularly in rural and Marathi-speaking communities. His remarks have drawn attention to the broader debate over education funding, the future of Marathi-medium schools and the priorities behind large public expenditures in Maharashtra.

Supreme Court justice Justice Prasanna B Varale flags shrinking education funds, Marathi school closures and questions whether Kumbh spending could save schools

‘0.1% of Nashik Kumbh funds could have helped save 100-125 Marathi schools’: Justice Varale

The District Disaster Management Authority in Gurugram has issued a work-from-home advisory for Tuesday (August 25), following heavy rainfall across the National Capital Region on Monday (August 24) that led to widespread waterlogging and severe traffic congestion. The advisory was issued after heavy rain affected several parts of Gurugram, raising concerns over further waterlogging and traffic disruptions.&nbsp;"In view of the heavy rainfall in Gurugram on 24 August 2026, there is a possibility of waterlogging and traffic congestion at various locations across the district," said the notice issued by the deputy commissioner. The order urged corporate offices, government and private schools, and other institutions to advise their employees and staff to work from home on August 25. "The advisory will help reduce traffic congestion and facilitate smooth repair and maintenance works on roads and drains by civic agencies," the notice added further.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/india-clarifies-leader-media-arrangements-sergio-gor-remarks-1787570558751">India calls leader media arrangements ‘normal practice’ after Sergio Gor remarks</a><h2>Heavy rain causes waterlogging across Gurugram</h2>The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued an orange alert for Gurugram and Faridabad on Monday, warning of heavy rainfall. As conditions improved, the alert was subsequently downgraded to yellow for the Delhi-NCR region. Intense spells of rain inundated several arterial roads, residential areas and highways across Gurugram. Several locations reported ankle-to-knee-deep water, affecting traffic movement and daily commuting.&nbsp;Waterlogging was reported in Sector 10 near Euro International School, South City-1, Tulip Chowk and the 60-metre road in Sector 69, Narsinghpur, Sectors 9, 14 and 45, DLF Phase 3's V Block, Ardee City towards Sector 52, Sector 52A, Sector 5 and the Airia Mall stretch on Sohna Road.<h2>Traffic hit as roads remain waterlogged</h2>The heavy rainfall also triggered major traffic disruptions across Gurugram, with vehicles moving slowly in several parts of the city. Traffic jams stretching up to four kilometres were reported at some locations. “Traffic teams have been deployed on site for managing vehicle movement, and assistance from local police stations has also been taken. We will take up route diversions wherever necessary,” ACP traffic (headquarters and highways) Satyapal Yadav was quoted as saying. The work-from-home advisory is aimed at reducing the number of vehicles on roads while civic agencies carry out repair, drainage and maintenance work in areas affected by the rainfall.

Gurugram work from home advisory for August 25 after heavy rain causes waterlogging and traffic jams. Check affected areas, IMD alert and latest update

The District Disaster Management Authority in Gurugram has issued a work-from-home advisory for Tuesday (August 25), following heavy rainfall across the National Capital Region on Monday (August 24) that led to widespread waterlogging and severe traffic congestion. The advisory was issued after heavy rain affected several parts of Gurugram, raising concerns over further waterlogging and traffic disruptions. "In view of the heavy rainfall in Gurugram on 24 August 2026, there is a possibility of waterlogging and traffic congestion at various locations across the district," said the notice issued by the deputy commissioner. The order urged corporate offices, government and private schools, and other institutions to advise their employees and staff to work from home on August 25. "The advisory will help reduce traffic congestion and facilitate smooth repair and maintenance works on roads and drains by civic agencies," the notice added further. Also Read: India calls leader media arrangements ‘normal practice’ after Sergio Gor remarks Heavy rain causes waterlogging across Gurugram The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued an orange alert for Gurugram and Faridabad on Monday, warning of heavy rainfall. As conditions improved, the alert was subsequently downgraded to yellow for the Delhi-NCR region. Intense spells of rain inundated several arterial roads, residential areas and highways across Gurugram. Several locations reported ankle-to-knee-deep water, affecting traffic movement and daily commuting. Waterlogging was reported in Sector 10 near Euro International School, South City-1, Tulip Chowk and the 60-metre road in Sector 69, Narsinghpur, Sectors 9, 14 and 45, DLF Phase 3's V Block, Ardee City towards Sector 52, Sector 52A, Sector 5 and the Airia Mall stretch on Sohna Road. Traffic hit as roads remain waterlogged The heavy rainfall also triggered major traffic disruptions across Gurugram, with vehicles moving slowly in several parts of the city. Traffic jams stretching up to four kilometres were reported at some locations. “Traffic teams have been deployed on site for managing vehicle movement, and assistance from local police stations has also been taken. We will take up route diversions wherever necessary,” ACP traffic (headquarters and highways) Satyapal Yadav was quoted as saying. The work-from-home advisory is aimed at reducing the number of vehicles on roads while civic agencies carry out repair, drainage and maintenance work in areas affected by the rainfall.

Gurugram issues a work-from-home advisory for August 25 after heavy rain caused widespread waterlogging, traffic jams and disruption across the city

Gurugram issues work-from-home advisory for August 25 amid waterlogging and traffic jams

The Union Government on Monday clarified that the discussion between two nations about the arrangement of a public appearance by their leader is a “normal practice”, PTI reported, citing government sources. This follows the government's clarification of US Ambassador Sergio Gor's remarks about the bilateral meeting between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump on the sidelines of the G7 summit in Evian, France.&nbsp;"Discussions regarding arrangements for public appearances of leaders are normal practice ahead of any VVIP visit," a government source told PTI."In this regard, the Indian side communicated its standard practice for such visits," the source added.The June 17 bilateral meeting between the US and India came after three Indian sailors were killed by a US Navy attack on the commercial vessel in the Strait of Hormuz.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-strikes-alleged-drug-trafficking-boat-eastern-pacific-1787567752917">US strikes alleged drug trafficking boat in Eastern Pacific, killing 2</a><h2>What did US envoy Sergio Gor say?</h2>During the Economic Times World Leaders Forum, Gor said that the Indian Ministry of External Affairs specifically requested that there should be no press interaction following the bilateral meet. But Trump supposedly forgot about that and, following the opening remarks, asked reporters if they had any questions, which followed a 45-minute press conference with reporters. Gor claimed, adding that the remark “opened everything up”.“I told the president, I said, the Indians prefer no questions. He said, sure, no problem. So the meeting starts, the press comes in, there must have been 50 cameras, the president is sitting here, the prime minister is sitting there, they both speak for a few minutes. As soon as they get done, the first thing the president does, he looks up at the camera and say, any questions?” said Gor.US Ambassador Sergio Gor shared the anecdote while discussing the India-US relationship and the personal friendship between US President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The Indian government said discussions over public appearances by leaders are normal practice after US Ambassador Sergio Gor's remarks on the Modi-Trump G7 meeting.

The Union Government on Monday clarified that the discussion between two nations about the arrangement of a public appearance by their leader is a “normal practice”, PTI reported, citing government sources. This follows the government's clarification of US Ambassador Sergio Gor's remarks about the bilateral meeting between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump on the sidelines of the G7 summit in Evian, France. "Discussions regarding arrangements for public appearances of leaders are normal practice ahead of any VVIP visit," a government source told PTI. "In this regard, the Indian side communicated its standard practice for such visits," the source added. The June 17 bilateral meeting between the US and India came after three Indian sailors were killed by a US Navy attack on the commercial vessel in the Strait of Hormuz. Also Read: US strikes alleged drug trafficking boat in Eastern Pacific, killing 2 What did US envoy Sergio Gor say? During the Economic Times World Leaders Forum, Gor said that the Indian Ministry of External Affairs specifically requested that there should be no press interaction following the bilateral meet. But Trump supposedly forgot about that and, following the opening remarks, asked reporters if they had any questions, which followed a 45-minute press conference with reporters. Gor claimed, adding that the remark “opened everything up”. “I told the president, I said, the Indians prefer no questions. He said, sure, no problem. So the meeting starts, the press comes in, there must have been 50 cameras, the president is sitting here, the prime minister is sitting there, they both speak for a few minutes. As soon as they get done, the first thing the president does, he looks up at the camera and say, any questions?” said Gor. US Ambassador Sergio Gor shared the anecdote while discussing the India-US relationship and the personal friendship between US President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The Indian government said discussions over public appearances by leaders are normal practice after US Ambassador Sergio Gor's remarks on the Modi-Trump G7 meeting.

India calls leader media arrangements ‘normal practice’ after Sergio Gor remarks

The Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) on Monday (Augyst 24) announced that it will organise a peaceful march from India Gate to the new Delhi Police Headquarters on September 5, accusing the government of failing to honour commitments made on July 25. The announcement followed a meeting of the party’s National Working Committee, which convened at 2 pm on Monday to review what the outfit described as the Centre’s failure to fulfil assurances made to the country’s youth.&nbsp;According to the party, the proposed march will be led by families of deceased NEET victims and people who were allegedly subjected to police brutality during the July 20 ‘Sansad Chlao’ march. Students and young citizens from across the country are also expected to participate. “We announce a peaceful protest march from India Gate to the new Delhi Police Headquarters on 5 September, led by the families of the deceased NEET victims and victims of police brutality, and joined by students and young citizens from across the country,” the statement read.&nbsp;The party said the September 5 protest was being announced after the government allegedly failed to act on commitments concerning the withdrawal or quashing of FIRs registered against students and protesters, along with compensation for the families of deceased NEET victims.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/tamil-nadu-cm-vijay-scraps-rs-20-000-crore-chennai-s-2nd-airport-project-at-parandur-here-s-why-1787568981473">Tamil Nadu CM Vijay scraps Rs 20,000-crore Chennai’s 2nd airport project at Parandur: Here's why</a><h2>‘Government playing games’</h2>The CJP accused the government of delaying action, citing technicalities and avoiding clear commitments instead of implementing assurances it said had been made earlier. “For a month now, instead of implementing what was solemnly promised, the Government has played delay games, hidden behind technicalities, and avoided giving clear commitments even before the Supreme Court of India,” the statement read.&nbsp;The outfit also alleged that the Union Government had declined to provide a clear commitment on the Supreme Court’s request for a consolidated list of FIRs registered across the country. “On 18 August, the Supreme Court repeatedly asked the Union Government to provide a list of FIRs registered across the country so that the Court could consider quashing them together, at one go, making the commitment easiest to fulfil. Yet, the Government refused to give a clear commitment to do so. The written assurance from the Government to the CJP is also due.”&nbsp;The party said its willingness to engage in dialogue should not be interpreted as weakness and accused the government of betraying its assurances. "Our good faith cannot become an opportunity for the Government to betray us.” The CJP said the September 5 march would remain peaceful and would bring together affected families, students and young citizens to press for action on the issues raised by the party.

Cockroach Janta Party announces a September 5 march from India Gate to Delhi Police HQ over FIRs, NEET victims’ compensation and government commitments

The Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) on Monday (Augyst 24) announced that it will organise a peaceful march from India Gate to the new Delhi Police Headquarters on September 5, accusing the government of failing to honour commitments made on July 25. The announcement followed a meeting of the party’s National Working Committee, which convened at 2 pm on Monday to review what the outfit described as the Centre’s failure to fulfil assurances made to the country’s youth. According to the party, the proposed march will be led by families of deceased NEET victims and people who were allegedly subjected to police brutality during the July 20 ‘Sansad Chlao’ march. Students and young citizens from across the country are also expected to participate. “We announce a peaceful protest march from India Gate to the new Delhi Police Headquarters on 5 September, led by the families of the deceased NEET victims and victims of police brutality, and joined by students and young citizens from across the country,” the statement read. The party said the September 5 protest was being announced after the government allegedly failed to act on commitments concerning the withdrawal or quashing of FIRs registered against students and protesters, along with compensation for the families of deceased NEET victims. Also Read: Tamil Nadu CM Vijay scraps Rs 20,000-crore Chennai’s 2nd airport project at Parandur: Here's why ‘Government playing games’ The CJP accused the government of delaying action, citing technicalities and avoiding clear commitments instead of implementing assurances it said had been made earlier. “For a month now, instead of implementing what was solemnly promised, the Government has played delay games, hidden behind technicalities, and avoided giving clear commitments even before the Supreme Court of India,” the statement read. The outfit also alleged that the Union Government had declined to provide a clear commitment on the Supreme Court’s request for a consolidated list of FIRs registered across the country. “On 18 August, the Supreme Court repeatedly asked the Union Government to provide a list of FIRs registered across the country so that the Court could consider quashing them together, at one go, making the commitment easiest to fulfil. Yet, the Government refused to give a clear commitment to do so. The written assurance from the Government to the CJP is also due.” The party said its willingness to engage in dialogue should not be interpreted as weakness and accused the government of betraying its assurances. "Our good faith cannot become an opportunity for the Government to betray us.” The CJP said the September 5 march would remain peaceful and would bring together affected families, students and young citizens to press for action on the issues raised by the party.

Cockroach Janta Party announces a peaceful September 5 march from India Gate to Delhi Police headquarters over unfulfilled government commitments

Cockroach Janta Party announces peaceful protest march on September 5 in Delhi, accuses government of failing to honour promises

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay on Monday (August 24) announced the scrapping of the second Chennai airport project in Kancheepuram's Parandur, which was unveiled by his predecessor, M K Stalin, in August 2022, nearly 60km west of Chennai. The announced project had an estimated cost of Rs 20,000 crore and an annual capacity of 100 million passengers, which had raised concerns over the ecology and water bodies in Parandur. Vijay's Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) government scrapped the airport project as it had triggered protests, maintaining that the greenfield project would affect their livelihood. The protests of the citizens, which started during the MK Stalin government, have lasted for a year. On Monday, Vijay said the government would identify suitable alternative locations for developing the proposed new airport. He said the existing Meenambakkam airport currently has the capacity to serve 30 million passengers a year. He cited the city's growing requirements, passenger convenience, industrial expansion and the need to boost cargo movement as key reasons for developing a new airport.<h3>Chennai airport with increased annual capacity</h3>Vijay told the state Assembly that the Chennai airport at Meenambakkam would be expanded with a new passenger terminal, increasing its annual capacity by another 20 million passengers. The expansion would also include additional access roads and flyovers. "After the ongoing construction work of Passenger Terminal 3 at Chennai [Meenambakkam] airport is completed, it will be capable of handling 35 million passengers annually," he said. "After the new Terminal 5 comes into operation, this airport will have a total handling capacity of 55 million passengers per year." He added that airport facilities would be enhanced and the traffic managed will be improved until the new airport is constructed. Vijay stressed that the proposed new airport should be developed without huge disruption to farmers or displacing a large number of people. He said the location proposed by the previous government for the airport would have severely impacted farmers and forced many people to relocate.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/15-flights-diverted-as-heavy-rain-thunderstorm-lash-national-capital-imd-issues-red-alert-1787567931687">15 flights diverted as heavy rain, thunderstorm lash national capital; IMD issues red alert</a> Vijay said he had visited Parandur in 2025, where he heard the concerns and grievances of local residents. "I firmly stood with them against the airport proposed to be set up at Parandur and the surrounding 12 villages," he said. "I had expressed my support to the farmers who have been protesting against this project. Farmers are the backbone of the nation, and these people were protesting to protect their agricultural lands," Vijay recalled. While highlighting the importance of airports in driving industrial growth and overall development, Vijay said he was fully in favour of development but maintained that Parandur should not be chosen as the site for the new Chennai airport. "The government will select an alternative site that minimises the damage to agricultural land and does not affect people's livelihoods," he said.

Vijay said the government would identify suitable alternative locations for developing the proposed new airport. He said the existing Meenambakkam airport currently has the capacity to serve 30 million passengers a year.

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay on Monday (August 24) announced the scrapping of the second Chennai airport project in Kancheepuram's Parandur, which was unveiled by his predecessor, M K Stalin, in August 2022, nearly 60km west of Chennai. The announced project had an estimated cost of Rs 20,000 crore and an annual capacity of 100 million passengers, which had raised concerns over the ecology and water bodies in Parandur. Vijay's Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) government scrapped the airport project as it had triggered protests, maintaining that the greenfield project would affect their livelihood. The protests of the citizens, which started during the MK Stalin government, have lasted for a year. On Monday, Vijay said the government would identify suitable alternative locations for developing the proposed new airport. He said the existing Meenambakkam airport currently has the capacity to serve 30 million passengers a year. He cited the city's growing requirements, passenger convenience, industrial expansion and the need to boost cargo movement as key reasons for developing a new airport. Chennai airport with increased annual capacity Vijay told the state Assembly that the Chennai airport at Meenambakkam would be expanded with a new passenger terminal, increasing its annual capacity by another 20 million passengers. The expansion would also include additional access roads and flyovers. "After the ongoing construction work of Passenger Terminal 3 at Chennai [Meenambakkam] airport is completed, it will be capable of handling 35 million passengers annually," he said. "After the new Terminal 5 comes into operation, this airport will have a total handling capacity of 55 million passengers per year." He added that airport facilities would be enhanced and the traffic managed will be improved until the new airport is constructed. Vijay stressed that the proposed new airport should be developed without huge disruption to farmers or displacing a large number of people. He said the location proposed by the previous government for the airport would have severely impacted farmers and forced many people to relocate. Also read: 15 flights diverted as heavy rain, thunderstorm lash national capital; IMD issues red alert Vijay said he had visited Parandur in 2025, where he heard the concerns and grievances of local residents. "I firmly stood with them against the airport proposed to be set up at Parandur and the surrounding 12 villages," he said. "I had expressed my support to the farmers who have been protesting against this project. Farmers are the backbone of the nation, and these people were protesting to protect their agricultural lands," Vijay recalled. While highlighting the importance of airports in driving industrial growth and overall development, Vijay said he was fully in favour of development but maintained that Parandur should not be chosen as the site for the new Chennai airport. "The government will select an alternative site that minimises the damage to agricultural land and does not affect people's livelihoods," he said.

Vijay said the government would identify suitable alternative locations for developing the proposed new airport. He said the existing Meenambakkam airport currently has the capacity to serve 30 million passengers a year.

Tamil Nadu CM Vijay scraps Rs 20,000-crore Chennai’s 2nd airport project at Parandur: Here's why

As many as 15 flights bound for Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGI) were diverted on Monday (Aug 24) after heavy rain and thunderstorms hit the national capital, disrupting flight operations and causing waterlogging and traffic snarls across the city. Of the 15 flights, 12 were diverted to Jaipur, while two were redirected to Chandigarh and one to Lucknow. Three of the flights diverted to Jaipur were international services.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/kpsc-exam-scam-probe-ed-raids-ias-officer-gyanendra-gangwar-s-bengaluru-bareilly-premises-over-irregularities-1787504381113">KPSC exam scam probe: ED raids IAS officer Gyanendra Gangwar’s Bengaluru, Bareilly premises over irregularities</a>&nbsp;The India Meteorological Department (IMD) had issued a red alert for very heavy rainfall in parts of Delhi, while a yellow alert for moderate showers was in place for other districts. South East Delhi, East Delhi, Shahdara, Central Delhi, North East Delhi, South Delhi, New Delhi, South West Delhi, West Delhi, North West Delhi and North Delhi witnessed heavy rainfall earlier in the day.&nbsp;The downpour led to waterlogging at several locations and triggered traffic congestion across the capital, affecting road movement during the day.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/explained-how-will-india-s-new-rs-62-500-crore-smartphone-manufacturing-scheme-will-boost-local-brands-1787482953768">How will India’s new smartphone manufacturing scheme boost local brands?</a><h2>IMD’s rain forecast for Delhi</h2>Delhi is likely to experience multiple spells of rain on Monday (Aug 24). However, weather conditions are expected to turn largely dry from Tuesday, with the IMD forecasting little or no rainfall across most of the capital for the remainder of the week.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-sees-rise-in-h1n1-cases-as-government-issues-alert-know-symptoms-precautions-and-when-you-should-see-a-doctor-1787481583917">Delhi swine flu alert: H1N1 cases on the rise as health advisory urges mask use</a>&nbsp;For Tuesday (Aug 25), the weather agency has forecast the “possibility of” very light rain during the afternoon. On Wednesday, very light to light rain is expected at a few places before noon, followed by another spell from afternoon to evening at many places. Moderate rainfall is also likely at isolated locations.&nbsp;

Heavy rainfall and severe thunderstorms in Delhi forced 15 IGI Airport flights to divert, while triggering citywide waterlogging, traffic disruption, and an IMD red alert across multiple districts.

As many as 15 flights bound for Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGI) were diverted on Monday (Aug 24) after heavy rain and thunderstorms hit the national capital, disrupting flight operations and causing waterlogging and traffic snarls across the city. Of the 15 flights, 12 were diverted to Jaipur, while two were redirected to Chandigarh and one to Lucknow. Three of the flights diverted to Jaipur were international services. Also read: KPSC exam scam probe: ED raids IAS officer Gyanendra Gangwar’s Bengaluru, Bareilly premises over irregularities The India Meteorological Department (IMD) had issued a red alert for very heavy rainfall in parts of Delhi, while a yellow alert for moderate showers was in place for other districts. South East Delhi, East Delhi, Shahdara, Central Delhi, North East Delhi, South Delhi, New Delhi, South West Delhi, West Delhi, North West Delhi and North Delhi witnessed heavy rainfall earlier in the day. The downpour led to waterlogging at several locations and triggered traffic congestion across the capital, affecting road movement during the day. Also read: How will India’s new smartphone manufacturing scheme boost local brands? IMD’s rain forecast for Delhi Delhi is likely to experience multiple spells of rain on Monday (Aug 24). However, weather conditions are expected to turn largely dry from Tuesday, with the IMD forecasting little or no rainfall across most of the capital for the remainder of the week. Also read: Delhi swine flu alert: H1N1 cases on the rise as health advisory urges mask use For Tuesday (Aug 25), the weather agency has forecast the “possibility of” very light rain during the afternoon. On Wednesday, very light to light rain is expected at a few places before noon, followed by another spell from afternoon to evening at many places. Moderate rainfall is also likely at isolated locations.

Heavy rainfall and severe thunderstorms in Delhi forced 15 IGI Airport flights to divert, while triggering citywide waterlogging, traffic disruption, and an IMD red alert across multiple districts.

15 flights diverted as heavy rain, thunderstorm lash national capital; IMD issues red alert

The Jammu and Kashmir State Investigation Agency (SIA) has reopened its investigation into the 1998 Wandhama massacre, in which 23 Kashmiri Pandits were killed, as part of a renewed effort to bring perpetrators of long-pending targeted killings to justice.The agency has also intensified investigations into the assassinations of prominent Kashmiri Pandits Tika Lal Taploo and Justice Neelkanth Ganjoo, two killings that marked the early years of terrorism in the Valley.The renewed investigations come amid Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha's repeated assurances that the administration will pursue justice for families affected by terrorism and ensure that perpetrators of targeted killings are held accountable.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/iit-delhi-alumna-builds-battery-powered-refrigeration-system-cuts-cold-chain-costs-by-75-1787562263126">IIT Delhi alumna builds battery-powered refrigeration system, cuts cold-chain costs by 75%</a>On the night of January 25, 1998, heavily armed terrorists entered the homes of Kashmiri Pandit families in Wandhama village of Ganderbal district and opened fire. Twenty-three people, including nine women and four children, were killed in the attack, which virtually wiped out the remaining non-migrant Kashmiri Pandit population of the village. Only one teenager is reported to have survived the massacre.An FIR was registered at the Ganderbal police station, but the case remained unresolved for nearly three decades.According to sources, the SIA has recently carried out searches at multiple locations in the Kashmir Valley in connection with the case. Investigators are examining fresh leads and attempting to identify the terrorists and alleged over-ground workers who were involved in planning, facilitating or executing the attack.Officials are also examining the roles of individuals who may have provided logistical support to the attackers.The SIA's renewed focus extends to two other high-profile assassinations from the early phase of militancy.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/tension-in-mumbai-s-mazgaon-after-eggs-allegedly-thrown-at-ganesh-procession-1787547718757">Tension in Mumbai's Mazgaon after eggs allegedly thrown at Ganesh procession</a>On September 13, 1989, Tika Lal Taploo, then Vice President of the BJP in Jammu and Kashmir and a prominent lawyer, was shot dead near his residence in Srinagar. His killing was among the early targeted attacks against members of the Kashmiri Pandit community.Less than two months later, on November 4, 1989, retired Justice Neelkanth Ganjoo was assassinated on Hari Singh Street in Srinagar. Ganjoo had presided over the trial that resulted in the death sentence of JKLF founder Maqbool Bhat.The renewed investigations are aimed at examining available evidence, identifying perpetrators and establishing the roles of their associates and facilitators.&nbsp;

The Jammu and Kashmir State Investigation Agency has reopened probes into the 1998 Wandhama massacre of 23 Kashmiri Pandits, alongside the 1989 assassinations of Tika Lal Taploo and Justice Neelkanth Ganjoo.

The Jammu and Kashmir State Investigation Agency (SIA) has reopened its investigation into the 1998 Wandhama massacre, in which 23 Kashmiri Pandits were killed, as part of a renewed effort to bring perpetrators of long-pending targeted killings to justice. The agency has also intensified investigations into the assassinations of prominent Kashmiri Pandits Tika Lal Taploo and Justice Neelkanth Ganjoo, two killings that marked the early years of terrorism in the Valley. The renewed investigations come amid Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha's repeated assurances that the administration will pursue justice for families affected by terrorism and ensure that perpetrators of targeted killings are held accountable. Also read: IIT Delhi alumna builds battery-powered refrigeration system, cuts cold-chain costs by 75% On the night of January 25, 1998, heavily armed terrorists entered the homes of Kashmiri Pandit families in Wandhama village of Ganderbal district and opened fire. Twenty-three people, including nine women and four children, were killed in the attack, which virtually wiped out the remaining non-migrant Kashmiri Pandit population of the village. Only one teenager is reported to have survived the massacre. An FIR was registered at the Ganderbal police station, but the case remained unresolved for nearly three decades. According to sources, the SIA has recently carried out searches at multiple locations in the Kashmir Valley in connection with the case. Investigators are examining fresh leads and attempting to identify the terrorists and alleged over-ground workers who were involved in planning, facilitating or executing the attack. Officials are also examining the roles of individuals who may have provided logistical support to the attackers. The SIA's renewed focus extends to two other high-profile assassinations from the early phase of militancy. Also read: Tension in Mumbai's Mazgaon after eggs allegedly thrown at Ganesh procession On September 13, 1989, Tika Lal Taploo, then Vice President of the BJP in Jammu and Kashmir and a prominent lawyer, was shot dead near his residence in Srinagar. His killing was among the early targeted attacks against members of the Kashmiri Pandit community. Less than two months later, on November 4, 1989, retired Justice Neelkanth Ganjoo was assassinated on Hari Singh Street in Srinagar. Ganjoo had presided over the trial that resulted in the death sentence of JKLF founder Maqbool Bhat. The renewed investigations are aimed at examining available evidence, identifying perpetrators and establishing the roles of their associates and facilitators.

The Jammu and Kashmir State Investigation Agency has reopened probes into the 1998 Wandhama massacre of 23 Kashmiri Pandits, alongside the 1989 assassinations of Tika Lal Taploo and Justice Neelkanth Ganjoo.

Nearly three decades on, SIA reopens Wandhama massacre investigation

An IIT Delhi alumna and her team have developed a refrigeration system designed to keep biodegradable goods cold without depending on a truck's engine. The developed technology focuses on reducing diesel consumption and refrigeration costs in India's cold-chain sector, as a shortage of storage and transport infrastructure can cause substantial food wastage. The post shared by a man on social media platform X highlighted the work of Shaivee Malik, a 25-year-old biotechnology graduate from the Indian Institute of Technology Delhi, who co-founded Yotuh Energy with former teammates Vivek Mahindrakar and Dharmik Bapodara. The post claimed that Malik got interested in engineering solutions while participating in IIT Delhi's Formula Racing team, Axlr8r, where she worked as associate team captain. Her experience, along with the joint cooperation of Mahindrakar and Bapodara, helped the development of practical engineering skills.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">About 1 in every 3 tonnes of fruit, vegetables and milk produced in India never reaches anybody. It rots on the way, because there was no cold storage and no refrigerated truck. The trucks that do have a fridge run it off the engine. So the engine has to keep running, burning… <a href="https://t.co/ktAyogwpAJ">pic.twitter.com/ktAyogwpAJ</a>&mdash; Sann (@san_x_m) <a href="https://x.com/san_x_m/status/2091153220144185664?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 22, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The trio later turned their attention to climate-related challenges, focusing on India's cold chain sector after identifying it as an area where substantial losses occur despite receiving relatively less attention. In 2022, they founded Yotuh Energy and registered the company in Delhi before relocating to Chennai for an incubation programme at IIT Madras. Interestingly, the company's name is derived from Sanskrit and refers to the act of cleaning.<h3>Lithium-ion battery powers the system</h3>The company's primary product is a refrigeration system powered by its own lithium-ion battery instead of the truck's engine. This enables the refrigeration unit to continue functioning even when the vehicle's engine is turned off, helping eliminate diesel consumption during idling. The system can also maintain cooling if the vehicle breaks down. Door-mounted sensors detect when the doors are opened and automatically adjust the cooling. Since the refrigeration unit functions independently of the vehicle's engine, it can be fitted on both conventional diesel trucks and electric vehicles. A single charge can power the system for approximately six to eight hours. The technology is claimed to cut refrigeration operating costs by about 75 per cent. According to information shared in the X post, each unit can prevent around three to 36 tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions per year, depending on its usage. The system is designed to tackle a key issue with conventional refrigerated transportation, where cooling equipment is often powered by the truck's engine and continues to consume diesel even while the vehicle is stationary.

The technology is claimed to cut refrigeration operating costs by about 75 per cent. Each unit can prevent around three to 36 tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions per year, depending on its usage. 

An IIT Delhi alumna and her team have developed a refrigeration system designed to keep biodegradable goods cold without depending on a truck's engine. The developed technology focuses on reducing diesel consumption and refrigeration costs in India's cold-chain sector, as a shortage of storage and transport infrastructure can cause substantial food wastage. The post shared by a man on social media platform X highlighted the work of Shaivee Malik, a 25-year-old biotechnology graduate from the Indian Institute of Technology Delhi, who co-founded Yotuh Energy with former teammates Vivek Mahindrakar and Dharmik Bapodara. The post claimed that Malik got interested in engineering solutions while participating in IIT Delhi's Formula Racing team, Axlr8r, where she worked as associate team captain. Her experience, along with the joint cooperation of Mahindrakar and Bapodara, helped the development of practical engineering skills.

The technology is claimed to cut refrigeration operating costs by about 75 per cent. Each unit can prevent around three to 36 tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions per year, depending on its usage.&nbsp;

IIT Delhi alumna builds battery-powered refrigeration system, cuts cold-chain costs by 75%

A fresh letter was issued against Kashmiri Pandit migrants on Sunday, warning the community working in the Kashmir Valley. The notice came almost two weeks after a similar letter was shared online, warning the community to “change their ways”. The development followed decades of threats to the community with letters that included personal details of the migrants, down to the house number and street name. The letter gives residential locations in different parts of Jammu along with names of a dozen Kashmiri Pandits, which also describes them as “white collar terrorists’’ and “traitors’’ working for their “masters” in Delhi. Officials assured that security agencies are looking into the authenticity of the two letters and attempting to identify those behind them. The letter distinguishes between Kashmiri Pandits who remained in the Valley and those who migrated, claiming that those who stayed are safe and no one is opposed to them, and those who did migrate. The threat is reportedly directed at those who left the valley, as well as individuals reportedly “trying to implement RSS agenda” in Kashmir. “As already warned, wherever you are and wherever you go, we are watching your every move,” the letter signed by one Ahmed Bilal states.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-nsa-doval-to-meet-chinese-counterpart-in-beijing-border-issue-ahead-of-xi-jinping-visit-to-be-discussed-1787548665477">Indian NSA Doval to meet Chinese counterpart in Beijing: Border issue ahead of Xi Jinping visit to be discussed</a><h3>Letter issued by United Liberation Council</h3>The letters, purportedly issued by a group called the United Liberation Council, which security agencies suspect may be another front of the Lashkar-e-Taiba, are being viewed as an attempt to intimidate Kashmiri Pandits who returned to the Valley after being appointed to various government departments under the PM job package. Earlier this month, following the emergence of the first threat letter, the Jammu and Kashmir government directed departments to send Kashmiri Pandit employees on leave. It also advised them to remain vigilant and relocate to safer areas. The earlier letter reportedly contained the names and phone numbers of some Revenue Department employees. Police sources said it attempted to link their official duties with the government's seizure of properties belonging to terrorists. The letter surfaced nearly a week after militants killed two migrant workers at a brick kiln in South Kashmir's Kulgam on July 31. &nbsp;

The letter distinguishes between Kashmiri Pandits who remained in the Valley and those who migrated, claiming that those who stayed are safe and no one is opposed to them, and those who did migrate.

A fresh letter was issued against Kashmiri Pandit migrants on Sunday, warning the community working in the Kashmir Valley. The notice came almost two weeks after a similar letter was shared online, warning the community to “change their ways”. The development followed decades of threats to the community with letters that included personal details of the migrants, down to the house number and street name. The letter gives residential locations in different parts of Jammu along with names of a dozen Kashmiri Pandits, which also describes them as “white collar terrorists’’ and “traitors’’ working for their “masters” in Delhi. Officials assured that security agencies are looking into the authenticity of the two letters and attempting to identify those behind them. The letter distinguishes between Kashmiri Pandits who remained in the Valley and those who migrated, claiming that those who stayed are safe and no one is opposed to them, and those who did migrate. The threat is reportedly directed at those who left the valley, as well as individuals reportedly “trying to implement RSS agenda” in Kashmir. “As already warned, wherever you are and wherever you go, we are watching your every move,” the letter signed by one Ahmed Bilal states. Also read: Indian NSA Doval to meet Chinese counterpart in Beijing: Border issue ahead of Xi Jinping visit to be discussed Letter issued by United Liberation Council The letters, purportedly issued by a group called the United Liberation Council, which security agencies suspect may be another front of the Lashkar-e-Taiba, are being viewed as an attempt to intimidate Kashmiri Pandits who returned to the Valley after being appointed to various government departments under the PM job package. Earlier this month, following the emergence of the first threat letter, the Jammu and Kashmir government directed departments to send Kashmiri Pandit employees on leave. It also advised them to remain vigilant and relocate to safer areas. The earlier letter reportedly contained the names and phone numbers of some Revenue Department employees. Police sources said it attempted to link their official duties with the government's seizure of properties belonging to terrorists. The letter surfaced nearly a week after militants killed two migrant workers at a brick kiln in South Kashmir's Kulgam on July 31.

The letter distinguishes between Kashmiri Pandits who remained in the Valley and those who migrated, claiming that those who stayed are safe and no one is opposed to them, and those who did migrate.

‘Change your ways’: Fresh threat issued against Kashmiri pandit migrants working in valley, names 12 community members

A high alert has been sounded across Kashmir after two undertrial prisoners, both facing charges under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, escaped from Srinagar Central Jail late last night by scaling the prison’s outer wall.A massive search operation has been launched to trace the two escapees, with police extending their efforts beyond Jammu and Kashmir to Rajasthan, where one of the prisoners is a resident. Lookout notices carrying their photographs have been circulated at key entry and exit points, including railway stations, the Srinagar airport and national highways.Police have also announced a reward for information leading to the duo’s arrest and appealed to members of the public to immediately inform the nearest police station or contact the emergency helpline 112.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-nsa-doval-to-meet-chinese-counterpart-in-beijing-border-issue-ahead-of-xi-jinping-visit-to-be-discussed-1787548665477">Indian NSA Doval to meet Chinese counterpart in Beijing: Border issue ahead of Xi Jinping visit to be discussed</a>The escapees have been identified as Farman Khan, a resident of Sadanpora in Rajasthan, and Mukhtar Ahmed Gujjar, a resident of Sanglan Chittargul in Anantnag district.According to police records, Khan was lodged in jail in connection with FIR No. 19/2026, registered at Lar Police Station in Ganderbal on June 23. The case invokes Sections 137(2) and 87 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), along with Sections 3 and 4 of the POCSO Act.Gujjar was facing FIR No. 20/2026, registered at Soura Police Station in Srinagar on April 13. The case includes Sections 137(2) and 65(1) of the BNS and Sections 3 and 4 of the POCSO Act.Officials have so far refrained from disclosing the precise sequence of events leading to the escape. CCTV footage from the prison is being examined as part of the investigation, while an interim inquiry has been ordered into the security breach.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/two-mlas-among-six-injured-after-speeding-car-crashes-rams-into-suv-in-delhi-1787537679207">Two MLAs among six injured after speeding car rams into SUV in Delhi</a>Sources said eight prison staff members have been suspended pending the outcome of the inquiry.The incident has raised serious questions over security arrangements at Srinagar Central Jail, a high-security facility housing around 500 inmates. The Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) has been responsible for security at the prison since October 2023, overseeing security both within and around the facility. &nbsp;

A high alert has been sounded in Kashmir after two POCSO-accused undertrials escaped Srinagar Central Jail by scaling a wall, prompting a search operation, lookouts, and staff suspensions.

A high alert has been sounded across Kashmir after two undertrial prisoners, both facing charges under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, escaped from Srinagar Central Jail late last night by scaling the prison’s outer wall. A massive search operation has been launched to trace the two escapees, with police extending their efforts beyond Jammu and Kashmir to Rajasthan, where one of the prisoners is a resident. Lookout notices carrying their photographs have been circulated at key entry and exit points, including railway stations, the Srinagar airport and national highways. Police have also announced a reward for information leading to the duo’s arrest and appealed to members of the public to immediately inform the nearest police station or contact the emergency helpline 112. Also read: Indian NSA Doval to meet Chinese counterpart in Beijing: Border issue ahead of Xi Jinping visit to be discussed The escapees have been identified as Farman Khan, a resident of Sadanpora in Rajasthan, and Mukhtar Ahmed Gujjar, a resident of Sanglan Chittargul in Anantnag district. According to police records, Khan was lodged in jail in connection with FIR No. 19/2026, registered at Lar Police Station in Ganderbal on June 23. The case invokes Sections 137(2) and 87 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), along with Sections 3 and 4 of the POCSO Act. Gujjar was facing FIR No. 20/2026, registered at Soura Police Station in Srinagar on April 13. The case includes Sections 137(2) and 65(1) of the BNS and Sections 3 and 4 of the POCSO Act. Officials have so far refrained from disclosing the precise sequence of events leading to the escape. CCTV footage from the prison is being examined as part of the investigation, while an interim inquiry has been ordered into the security breach. Also read: Two MLAs among six injured after speeding car rams into SUV in Delhi Sources said eight prison staff members have been suspended pending the outcome of the inquiry. The incident has raised serious questions over security arrangements at Srinagar Central Jail, a high-security facility housing around 500 inmates. The Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) has been responsible for security at the prison since October 2023, overseeing security both within and around the facility.

A high alert has been sounded in Kashmir after two POCSO-accused undertrials escaped Srinagar Central Jail by scaling a wall, prompting a search operation, lookouts, and staff suspensions.

High alert across J&K after 2 POCSO-accused prisoners escape Srinagar Central Jail

National Security Adviser (NSA) Ajit Doval is expected to visit China on Monday (Aug 24) for a meeting of the Special Representatives on the boundary issue, and will meet his counterpart for the Special Representatives mechanism, Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi. It is part of efforts by the two sides to normalise ties. This will be the 25th round of talks under the mechanism, established in 2003 to work out a framework for resolving the dispute over the 3,488-km border. Doval’s visit assumes comes weeks ahead of Chinese President Xi Jinping’s expected trip to India next month to participate in the BRICS Summit in New Delhi. This will be Xi’s first visit to India in seven years. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Xi last met in August 2025 on the margins of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation Summit in China.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-s-water-hunting-space-mission-to-moon-s-south-pole-postponed-1787503810216">China's water hunting space mission to moon's south pole postponed</a><h2>Talks against recent Arunachal Pradesh standoff</h2>The visit of Doval comes amid reported clash of Indian and Chinese troops in the Arunachal Pradesh sector of the Line of Actual Control (LAC). External affairs minister S Jaishankar recently said that the state of the border will determine the course of the overall India-China relationship. “I think we went through a particularly bad patch between the summer of 2020 and the autumn of 2024, and that was primarily an outcome of the situation in the border areas,” Jaishankar said, referring to a military face-off in the Ladakh sector of the LAC that lasted more than four years and took bilateral ties to a six-decade low. After the two sides reached an understanding on ending the face-off in Ladakh in October 2024, Xi and Modi met in Russia and agreed on measures to normalise ties and address the border dispute. Steps were taken to revive the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, direct flights and ease of visa restrictions for Chinese nationals&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/ajit-doval-in-beijing-for-crucial-india-china-border-talks-ahead-of-xi-jinping-visit-1787490646127">Ajit Doval In Beijing For Crucial India-China Border Talks Ahead Of Xi Jinping Visit</a><h2>Last round of Special Representatives' talk</h2>At the last round of Special Representatives’ talks in New Delhi a year ago, the two sides reiterated the “importance of maintaining peace and tranquillity” on the border to promote the overall development of ties. According to an Indian readout issued at the time, the Special Representatives agreed on the need for a “political perspective” while working on a fair, reasonable and mutually acceptable framework for settling the boundary question in line with the Agreement on Political Parameters and Guiding Principles for Settlement of the India-China Boundary Question of 2005. They also agreed to set up an expert group under the Working Mechanism for Consultation and Coordination (WMCC) on India-China Border Affairs to “explore early harvest in boundary delimitation”, and a working group under the WMCC to advance effective border management. They further agreed to create general-level mechanisms in the eastern and middle sectors of the border, in addition to the existing general-level mechanism in the western sector.

NSA Ajit Doval is expected to visit China for the 25th round of India-China Special Representatives’ talks with Wang Yi on the boundary dispute. The discussions come ahead of Xi Jinping’s expected India visit for the BRICS Summit

National Security Adviser (NSA) Ajit Doval is expected to visit China on Monday (Aug 24) for a meeting of the Special Representatives on the boundary issue, and will meet his counterpart for the Special Representatives mechanism, Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi. It is part of efforts by the two sides to normalise ties. This will be the 25th round of talks under the mechanism, established in 2003 to work out a framework for resolving the dispute over the 3,488-km border. Doval’s visit assumes comes weeks ahead of Chinese President Xi Jinping’s expected trip to India next month to participate in the BRICS Summit in New Delhi. This will be Xi’s first visit to India in seven years. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Xi last met in August 2025 on the margins of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation Summit in China. Also Read: China's water hunting space mission to moon's south pole postponed Talks against recent Arunachal Pradesh standoff The visit of Doval comes amid reported clash of Indian and Chinese troops in the Arunachal Pradesh sector of the Line of Actual Control (LAC). External affairs minister S Jaishankar recently said that the state of the border will determine the course of the overall India-China relationship. “I think we went through a particularly bad patch between the summer of 2020 and the autumn of 2024, and that was primarily an outcome of the situation in the border areas,” Jaishankar said, referring to a military face-off in the Ladakh sector of the LAC that lasted more than four years and took bilateral ties to a six-decade low. After the two sides reached an understanding on ending the face-off in Ladakh in October 2024, Xi and Modi met in Russia and agreed on measures to normalise ties and address the border dispute. Steps were taken to revive the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, direct flights and ease of visa restrictions for Chinese nationals Also Read: Ajit Doval In Beijing For Crucial India-China Border Talks Ahead Of Xi Jinping Visit Last round of Special Representatives' talk At the last round of Special Representatives’ talks in New Delhi a year ago, the two sides reiterated the “importance of maintaining peace and tranquillity” on the border to promote the overall development of ties. According to an Indian readout issued at the time, the Special Representatives agreed on the need for a “political perspective” while working on a fair, reasonable and mutually acceptable framework for settling the boundary question in line with the Agreement on Political Parameters and Guiding Principles for Settlement of the India-China Boundary Question of 2005. They also agreed to set up an expert group under the Working Mechanism for Consultation and Coordination (WMCC) on India-China Border Affairs to “explore early harvest in boundary delimitation”, and a working group under the WMCC to advance effective border management. They further agreed to create general-level mechanisms in the eastern and middle sectors of the border, in addition to the existing general-level mechanism in the western sector.

NSA Ajit Doval is expected to visit China for the 25th round of India-China Special Representatives’ talks with Wang Yi on the boundary dispute. The discussions come ahead of Xi Jinping’s expected India visit for the BRICS Summit

Indian NSA Doval to meet Chinese counterpart in Beijing: Border issue ahead of Xi Jinping visit to be discussed

More than 40 individuals were hospitalised after a chlorine gas leak at a water purification plant in Nagpur district of Maharashtra on Monday (August 24). After the incident, several plant workers and nearby residents reported breathing difficulties. Officials confirmed that the gas leak started at nearly 1 am from a 900-kg chlorine gas cylinder at the Godhani Nagar Panchayat’s water treatment plant near Fago Patil Layout and Nag Mandir Tekdi. Soon after the gas spread to the vicinity of the residential areas, multiple people reported coughing and breathing difficulties. Nearly 8-10 workers at the plant and another 20-25 nearby residents were impacted by the leak, according to police, who said 40 people in total are receiving treatment at Sparsh Hospital and Mayo Hospital. Police, fire brigade personnel, and National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams responded to the scene. They initiated rescue and neutralisation efforts, with NDRF staff donning protective suits to enter the facility and contain the leaked gas.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/3-newborns-dead-as-ventilator-blast-causes-massive-fire-at-maharashtra-hospital-1787541457670">3 newborns dead as ventilator blast causes massive fire at Maharashtra hospital</a><h3>Police warn residents</h3>Once the leak was brought under control around 5:30 am, the chlorine cylinder was submerged in a tank of water mixed with caustic soda, a process carried out with support from NDRF, the fire brigade, and Orange City Waterworks staff. Police have cautioned residents to remain at least 200 metres from the plant until 11 am as a safety measure, and authorities say the situation is now under control.&nbsp;Meanwhile, OCW officials confirmed that the affected facility is a Godhani Gram Panchayat-operated water plant and not an NMC- or OCW-operated facility. The OCW team responded to the emergency for assistance in controlling the leak using SCBA (self-contained breathing apparatus) sets. Police and authorities from the Directorate of Industrial Safety and Health (DISH) reportedly appreciated the quick response and help provided by OCW personnel in a very short span.

Police, fire brigade personnel, and National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams responded to the scene and initiated rescue and neutralisation efforts, with NDRF staff donning protective suits to enter the facility and contain the leaked gas.

More than 40 individuals were hospitalised after a chlorine gas leak at a water purification plant in Nagpur district of Maharashtra on Monday (August 24). After the incident, several plant workers and nearby residents reported breathing difficulties. Officials confirmed that the gas leak started at nearly 1 am from a 900-kg chlorine gas cylinder at the Godhani Nagar Panchayat’s water treatment plant near Fago Patil Layout and Nag Mandir Tekdi. Soon after the gas spread to the vicinity of the residential areas, multiple people reported coughing and breathing difficulties. Nearly 8-10 workers at the plant and another 20-25 nearby residents were impacted by the leak, according to police, who said 40 people in total are receiving treatment at Sparsh Hospital and Mayo Hospital. Police, fire brigade personnel, and National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams responded to the scene. They initiated rescue and neutralisation efforts, with NDRF staff donning protective suits to enter the facility and contain the leaked gas. Also read: 3 newborns dead as ventilator blast causes massive fire at Maharashtra hospital Police warn residents Once the leak was brought under control around 5:30 am, the chlorine cylinder was submerged in a tank of water mixed with caustic soda, a process carried out with support from NDRF, the fire brigade, and Orange City Waterworks staff. Police have cautioned residents to remain at least 200 metres from the plant until 11 am as a safety measure, and authorities say the situation is now under control. Meanwhile, OCW officials confirmed that the affected facility is a Godhani Gram Panchayat-operated water plant and not an NMC- or OCW-operated facility. The OCW team responded to the emergency for assistance in controlling the leak using SCBA (self-contained breathing apparatus) sets. Police and authorities from the Directorate of Industrial Safety and Health (DISH) reportedly appreciated the quick response and help provided by OCW personnel in a very short span.

Police, fire brigade personnel, and National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams responded to the scene and initiated rescue and neutralisation efforts, with NDRF staff donning protective suits to enter the facility and contain the leaked gas.

Over 40 people hospitalised after chlorine gas leak at water purification plant in Maharashtra's Nagpur, area cordoned off

Tension briefly gripped Mumbai’s Mazgaon area on Sunday night after unidentified people allegedly threw eggs towards a Ganesh idol during an arrival procession, triggering a confrontation and prompting a heavy police deployment in the area. The incident took place as the Ganesh idol was being brought towards a pandal in Mazgaon. According to police and local reports, the eggs were allegedly thrown from a high-rise building located around 30 to 40 metres from the Ganesh pandal. The incident led to anger among devotees and a large gathering of local residents.&nbsp;A confrontation subsequently broke out between two groups, escalating tensions in the locality. Police teams were rushed to the spot to prevent the situation from worsening. Senior police officers, including Deputy Commissioner of Police Jayant Meena, visited the area and spoke to organisers and residents.Members of the Ganpati mandal and the Akhil Sarvajanik Utsav Samiti demanded strict action against those responsible. Organisers called for the immediate identification and arrest of the people allegedly involved in the incident.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Maharashtra: Heavy police security deployed in Mumbai’s Mazgaon after Ganesh festival organisers alleged eggs were hurled at their procession during the idol’s arrival Source: ANI <a href="https://t.co/wtdMlbFY1N">pic.twitter.com/wtdMlbFY1N</a>&mdash; WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://x.com/WIONews/status/2091753282679226504?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 24, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/baby-girl-allegedly-put-up-for-sale-in-gujarat-for-1-5-lakh-five-arrested-1787223677992/amp">Baby girl allegedly put up for sale in Gujarat for ₹1.5 lakh; five arrested</a>&nbsp;Police have registered a case against unidentified persons under relevant legal provisions. Investigators are examining CCTV footage from the area, including surveillance cameras installed in nearby buildings, to identify the suspects and establish exactly how the incident unfolded. The crowd eventually dispersed after police assured organisers and residents that appropriate action would be taken. Authorities have since intensified patrolling and deployed additional personnel in Mazgaon as a precautionary measure. Police have said the situation is currently under control.<h3>Similar incident reported in Mumbai in 2022</h3>The Mazgaon incident also brings back memories of a similar episode in Mumbai during the 2022 Ganesh festival. In August 2022, a 25-year-old man was arrested for allegedly throwing an egg at a group carrying a Ganesh idol in the Kamathipura area of Nagpada. Police said the incident occurred during a procession bringing the idol from Chinchpokli, and the resulting tension was brought under control shortly afterwards. The accused was booked under provisions of the Indian Penal Code relating to promoting enmity between groups and deliberate acts intended to outrage religious feelings.&nbsp;The latest incident comes as Mumbai prepares for the upcoming Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations, with Ganesh idol arrival processions taking place across several parts of the city. Authorities are expected to maintain heightened security around sensitive routes and major pandals as the festival period approaches. Police surveillance, crowd management and coordination with Ganesh mandals are likely to remain key components of the security arrangements.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/heavy-security-across-mumbai-ahead-of-bakri-eid-police-increase-vigil-in-sensitive-areas-1779706004393">Heavy security across Mumbai ahead of Bakri Eid; Police increase vigil in sensitive areas</a>&nbsp;The Mazgaon incident also comes a day after a separate tragedy during a Ganesh idol arrival procession in Mumbai’s Bhuleshwar area, where two people were killed and five others injured after a towering Ganesh idol collapsed during the procession on Saturday night.&nbsp;While the two incidents are unrelated, the back-to-back events have placed the focus on crowd and procession management in Mumbai ahead of the festival season. For now, police continue to investigate the Mazgaon incident, with CCTV footage expected to play a key role in identifying those allegedly responsible. Officials have appealed for calm and assured residents that adequate security measures are in place to prevent any further escalation.

Tension erupted in Mumbai's Mazgaon after unidentified people allegedly threw eggs at a Ganesh idol during an arrival procession, triggering a confrontation. Police registered a case against unidentified persons and deployed additional personnel, while CCTV footage is being examined

Tension briefly gripped Mumbai’s Mazgaon area on Sunday night after unidentified people allegedly threw eggs towards a Ganesh idol during an arrival procession, triggering a confrontation and prompting a heavy police deployment in the area. The incident took place as the Ganesh idol was being brought towards a pandal in Mazgaon. According to police and local reports, the eggs were allegedly thrown from a high-rise building located around 30 to 40 metres from the Ganesh pandal. The incident led to anger among devotees and a large gathering of local residents. A confrontation subsequently broke out between two groups, escalating tensions in the locality. Police teams were rushed to the spot to prevent the situation from worsening. Senior police officers, including Deputy Commissioner of Police Jayant Meena, visited the area and spoke to organisers and residents. Members of the Ganpati mandal and the Akhil Sarvajanik Utsav Samiti demanded strict action against those responsible. Organisers called for the immediate identification and arrest of the people allegedly involved in the incident.

Tension erupted in Mumbai's Mazgaon after unidentified people allegedly threw eggs at a Ganesh idol during an arrival procession, triggering a confrontation. Police registered a case against unidentified persons and deployed additional personnel, while CCTV footage is being examined

Tension in Mumbai's Mazgaon after eggs allegedly thrown at Ganesh procession

Three newborn babies have died after a fire broke out in the Special Newborn Care Unit (SNCU) of the District Women’s Hospital in Amravati in the early hours of Monday. The incident occurred at around 3:30 am, triggering a frantic evacuation operation inside the hospital.&nbsp;According to the latest reports,&nbsp;39 newborns were admitted to the SNCU when the fire broke out. Doctors, nurses and other hospital staff rushed to the unit and began evacuating the babies from the affected area. Medical equipment was disconnected and the newborns were moved to safer locations.&nbsp;Three infants died after suffering severe burns and smoke inhalation. Six critically affected newborns were shifted to a nearby Super Speciality Hospital&nbsp;for further treatment. The condition of the remaining babies is being monitored as authorities assess the full impact of the incident.<h3>What caused the fire?</h3>The exact cause of the blaze is yet to be officially established. Initial reports said the fire may have followed an electrical fault, while the latest reports indicate that a&nbsp;ventilator reportedly exploded&nbsp;in the neonatal unit. An investigation is expected to establish whether an electrical malfunction, equipment failure or another factor triggered the blaze.&nbsp;The incident has once again brought hospital fire safety into focus, particularly in neonatal units where many patients are premature, critically ill or dependent on equipment for basic life support.<h3>Amravati has witnessed a similar incident before</h3>Monday's tragedy is particularly significant because the same Amravati hospital witnessed a fire-related emergency in&nbsp;September 2022. At that time, a fire broke out in the NICU of the government-run hospital, where&nbsp;37 newborns were being treated. Twelve infants who were on ventilator support were among those rescued. Hospital staff and firefighters managed to evacuate the babies safely, and there were no reported deaths in that incident.&nbsp;There was also a fatal neonatal fire in Amravati in May 2017. Four newborn babies lost their lives after a short circuit reportedly triggered a fire involving an incubator at Punjabrao Deshmukh Hospital and Medical College. The incident was part of a series of neonatal-unit fires reported in the Vidarbha region.<h3>Maharashtra's history of deadly neonatal fires</h3>The latest tragedy also recalls the devastating Bhandara hospital fire of January 2021, when 10 newborn babies died after a fire broke out in the Special Newborn Care Unit of the district hospital. Seventeen infants were inside the unit at the time, and seven were rescued. Reports said several of the babies died from smoke inhalation and burns.&nbsp;In Amravati, authorities are now expected to investigate the precise cause of Monday's fire, assess whether all mandatory fire-safety systems were functional and determine whether any lapses contributed to the deaths.The investigation will also be crucial in establishing accountability and preventing another tragedy in a unit meant to protect the hospital's most vulnerable patients.

Hospital staff succeeded in evacuating several infants from the ward, with six of them subsequently moved to a super-speciality facility for continued care. Police arrived at the scene and began an initial investigation, though the cause of the fire has not yet been determined.

Three newborn babies have died after a fire broke out in the Special Newborn Care Unit (SNCU) of the District Women’s Hospital in Amravati in the early hours of Monday. The incident occurred at around 3:30 am, triggering a frantic evacuation operation inside the hospital. According to the latest reports, 39 newborns were admitted to the SNCU when the fire broke out. Doctors, nurses and other hospital staff rushed to the unit and began evacuating the babies from the affected area. Medical equipment was disconnected and the newborns were moved to safer locations. Three infants died after suffering severe burns and smoke inhalation. Six critically affected newborns were shifted to a nearby Super Speciality Hospital for further treatment. The condition of the remaining babies is being monitored as authorities assess the full impact of the incident. What caused the fire? The exact cause of the blaze is yet to be officially established. Initial reports said the fire may have followed an electrical fault, while the latest reports indicate that a ventilator reportedly exploded in the neonatal unit. An investigation is expected to establish whether an electrical malfunction, equipment failure or another factor triggered the blaze. The incident has once again brought hospital fire safety into focus, particularly in neonatal units where many patients are premature, critically ill or dependent on equipment for basic life support. Amravati has witnessed a similar incident before Monday's tragedy is particularly significant because the same Amravati hospital witnessed a fire-related emergency in September 2022. At that time, a fire broke out in the NICU of the government-run hospital, where 37 newborns were being treated. Twelve infants who were on ventilator support were among those rescued. Hospital staff and firefighters managed to evacuate the babies safely, and there were no reported deaths in that incident. There was also a fatal neonatal fire in Amravati in May 2017. Four newborn babies lost their lives after a short circuit reportedly triggered a fire involving an incubator at Punjabrao Deshmukh Hospital and Medical College. The incident was part of a series of neonatal-unit fires reported in the Vidarbha region. Maharashtra's history of deadly neonatal fires The latest tragedy also recalls the devastating Bhandara hospital fire of January 2021, when 10 newborn babies died after a fire broke out in the Special Newborn Care Unit of the district hospital. Seventeen infants were inside the unit at the time, and seven were rescued. Reports said several of the babies died from smoke inhalation and burns. In Amravati, authorities are now expected to investigate the precise cause of Monday's fire, assess whether all mandatory fire-safety systems were functional and determine whether any lapses contributed to the deaths. The investigation will also be crucial in establishing accountability and preventing another tragedy in a unit meant to protect the hospital's most vulnerable patients.

Hospital staff succeeded in evacuating several infants from the ward, with six of them subsequently moved to a super-speciality facility for continued care. Police arrived at the scene and began an initial investigation, though the cause of the fire has not yet been determined.

3 newborns dead as ventilator blast causes massive fire at Maharashtra hospital

Multiple people were detained after around 300 protesters gathered at Connaught Place's outer circle in Delhi on Sunday to protest against caste-based reservation, officials said. The protesters were also demanding reforms in the quota system, officials said.&nbsp; Over 20 people, who had gathered for the stir at Connaught Place, were detained and removed from the site because no permission had been granted for the agitation, police reportedly said.The protesters, who were carrying placards, raised slogans and called for greater emphasis on economic criteria when deciding eligibility for reservation. They further said that the assistance should reach economically disadvantaged people irrespective of caste, according to news agency PTI.Earlier today, the Delhi Police said no permission was granted to any individual or organisation to hold a protest or gathering at Jantar Mantar over reservation reforms.The gathering was cleared from the protest site, while the police maintained a presence at the Connaught Place. The agitation took place under the banner of “Reservation Hatao Andolan” – an Instagram-based page with around 5.6 million followers – which had called on its followers to join a protest in Delhi after building an online campaign around reservation reforms.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Delhi Police detains &#39;anti-reservation&#39; protesters near Jantar Mantar. <a href="https://t.co/msrK2MCVsC">pic.twitter.com/msrK2MCVsC</a>&mdash; News Arena India (@NewsArenaIndia) <a href="https://x.com/NewsArenaIndia/status/2091465936276713919?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 23, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/short-videos/massive-protest-against-caste-reservation-erupts-at-delhi-s-jantar-mantar-1787472949686">Massive protest against caste reservation erupts at Delhi's Jantar Mantar</a><h2>What are the protesters' demands?</h2>Among the demands raised by the protesters was the introduction of a creamy-layer criterion and a review of the existing reservation framework, PTI reported.They also called for changes in policies concerning Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes and Other Backward Classes. One of the protesters said the stir was “not against reservation” but for “reforms in reservation”. “The government should understand that poor people from all communities also face difficulties and their concerns should be heard,” the protester told PTI.The protesters raised concerns regarding the University Grants Commission framework and the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act. They sought a broader review of policies they said were affecting opportunities in education and employment.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/we-will-not-allow-the-government-to-insult-an-entire-generation-cjp-warns-centre-of-fresh-stir-1787480225627">'We will not allow the government to insult an entire generation': CJP</a>&nbsp;<h3>Prohibitory orders under Section 163 in New Delhi</h3>The police in a statement earlier today said prohibitory orders under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), which replaced Section 144 of the CrPC, were in force in New Delhi district.They said that in accordance to this, protest marches, processions, demonstrations and assemblies of five or more persons were prohibited in the area.The police then advised citizens not to gather on the basis of such posts or videos and not to forward, share or amplify unverified content&nbsp;Union minister Chirag Paswan has said that the government would engage in dialogue with anti-reservation protesters

Over 20 people were detained after around 300 protesters gathered at Delhi’s Connaught Place to demand reforms in the reservation system. The protesters sought a creamy-layer criterion and greater focus on economic criteria, while Delhi Police cited prohibitory orders 

Multiple people were detained after around 300 protesters gathered at Connaught Place's outer circle in Delhi on Sunday to protest against caste-based reservation, officials said. The protesters were also demanding reforms in the quota system, officials said. Over 20 people, who had gathered for the stir at Connaught Place, were detained and removed from the site because no permission had been granted for the agitation, police reportedly said. The protesters, who were carrying placards, raised slogans and called for greater emphasis on economic criteria when deciding eligibility for reservation. They further said that the assistance should reach economically disadvantaged people irrespective of caste, according to news agency PTI. Earlier today, the Delhi Police said no permission was granted to any individual or organisation to hold a protest or gathering at Jantar Mantar over reservation reforms.The gathering was cleared from the protest site, while the police maintained a presence at the Connaught Place. The agitation took place under the banner of “Reservation Hatao Andolan” – an Instagram-based page with around 5.6 million followers – which had called on its followers to join a protest in Delhi after building an online campaign around reservation reforms.

Over 20 people were detained after around 300 protesters gathered at Delhi’s Connaught Place to demand reforms in the reservation system. The protesters sought a creamy-layer criterion and greater focus on economic criteria, while Delhi Police cited prohibitory orders&nbsp;

Several detained in Delhi's Connaught Place as 300 gather for anti-reservation protest - VIDEO

At least six people, including Delhi Aam Aadmi Party MLA Anil Jha and Karnataka Bharatiya Janata Party MLA Abhay Patil, were injured after a hatchback crossed a road divider and crashed into an SUV near the PWD headquarters on Vikas Marg near ITO in central Delhi on Sunday night, police said. The two MLAs were travelling in the SUV when the crash occurred. All those injured sustained minor injuries and were taken to Lok Nayak Hospital, police said. They are in stable condition.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/nigeria-boat-accident-51-people-dead-after-boat-capsizes-1787320857331">Nigeria boat accident: 51 people dead after boat capsizes</a> How the crash happenedDeputy commissioner of police (central) Rohit Ranbir Singh said the IP Estate police station received a call about the road crash at around 9.30pm.A police team reached the spot and found two damaged vehicles, both bearing Delhi registration numbers.“As per the preliminary inquiry, the hatchback was being driven by a 32-year-old resident of Delhi’s Arya Nagar, who was travelling towards ITO from Laxmi Nagar along with his wife and two minor children,” said Singh.Near the PWD office, the car hit the road divider and then crossed the railing. It entered the opposite carriageway and collided with the SUV travelling from ITO towards Laxmi Nagar.“All people sustained minor injuries and were shifted to Lok Nayak Hospital for treatment. They are in stable condition,” the DCP added.Anil Jha, Abhay Patil among injured&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/hyderabad-crash-sparks-questions-after-mp-s-son-is-booked-1787313636763">Hyderabad crash sparks questions after MP's son is booked</a>The SUV was carrying Anil Jha, the sitting AAP MLA from Kirari Vidhan Sabha, and Abhay Patil, a BJP MLA from Karnataka.Police said all six people involved in the crash suffered minor injuries and were shifted to Lok Nayak Hospital for treatment. Their condition was reported to be stable.The collision caused significant damage to the front of the SUV. The fire brigade was called to the spot to help remove the damaged vehicles and restore traffic movement.

AAP MLA Anil Jha and Karnataka BJP MLA Abhay Patil were among six people injured after a hatchback crossed a road divider and collided with their SUV near PWD headquarters on Vikas Marg in central Delhi. All six suffered minor injuries and are stable, police said.

At least six people, including Delhi Aam Aadmi Party MLA Anil Jha and Karnataka Bharatiya Janata Party MLA Abhay Patil, were injured after a hatchback crossed a road divider and crashed into an SUV near the PWD headquarters on Vikas Marg near ITO in central Delhi on Sunday night, police said. The two MLAs were travelling in the SUV when the crash occurred. All those injured sustained minor injuries and were taken to Lok Nayak Hospital, police said. They are in stable condition. Also Read: Nigeria boat accident: 51 people dead after boat capsizes How the crash happened Deputy commissioner of police (central) Rohit Ranbir Singh said the IP Estate police station received a call about the road crash at around 9.30pm. A police team reached the spot and found two damaged vehicles, both bearing Delhi registration numbers. “As per the preliminary inquiry, the hatchback was being driven by a 32-year-old resident of Delhi’s Arya Nagar, who was travelling towards ITO from Laxmi Nagar along with his wife and two minor children,” said Singh. Near the PWD office, the car hit the road divider and then crossed the railing. It entered the opposite carriageway and collided with the SUV travelling from ITO towards Laxmi Nagar.“All people sustained minor injuries and were shifted to Lok Nayak Hospital for treatment. They are in stable condition,” the DCP added.Anil Jha, Abhay Patil among injured Also Read: Hyderabad crash sparks questions after MP's son is booked The SUV was carrying Anil Jha, the sitting AAP MLA from Kirari Vidhan Sabha, and Abhay Patil, a BJP MLA from Karnataka. Police said all six people involved in the crash suffered minor injuries and were shifted to Lok Nayak Hospital for treatment. Their condition was reported to be stable.The collision caused significant damage to the front of the SUV. The fire brigade was called to the spot to help remove the damaged vehicles and restore traffic movement.

AAP MLA Anil Jha and Karnataka BJP MLA Abhay Patil were among six people injured after a hatchback crossed a road divider and collided with their SUV near PWD headquarters on Vikas Marg in central Delhi. All six suffered minor injuries and are stable, police said.

Speeding car crashes through divider, rams into SUV in Delhi, 2 MLAs among 6 injured

Over 150 Pakistani Sindhi brides who were previously engaged to Indian men but could not travel to India in the wake of the Pahalgam terror attack, followed by Operation Sindoor and the closure of the Wagah-Attari border, have finally managed to travel to the country for their wedding plans.&nbsp;Community leader Rajesh Jhambia said that the Union Government later issued visas to the brides and their relatives, allowing them to reach India through transit routes in other countries. “The long wait is over, finally,” Jhambia said on Sunday.Jhambia, who works for Sindhi migrants from Pakistan, told PTI that the brides and approximately 450 accompanying relatives were mandated to travel strictly by air and utilising connecting flights to reach India.&nbsp;"The brides and their kin have arrived in India through transit routes via Muscat, Dubai, Sri Lanka and other countries," said Jhambia.&nbsp;Jhambia said that due to hassle free visa and movement through the Wagah-Attari border had allowed families from Pakistan's Sindh province to engage in cross-border matrimonial relationships. However, following the major terrorist attack that occurred in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, leaving 26 civilians dead. India, in response, launched Operation Sindoor and closed off the Wagah-Attari gates, cancelling land border cross-country travel. "There were about 150 brides who were to be married in Nagpur, Raipur, Jodhpur, Pune and other cities in India," said Jhambia.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sergio-gor-india-no-questions-modi-trump-g7-meeting-1787502896726">US envoy Sergio Gor claims India sought ‘no questions’ after Modi-Trump G7 meeting</a>They then approached the Raipur-based Sant Yudhishtirlal Shadaani, spiritual head of Shadaani Darbar, a prominent Hindu religious shrine in Ghotki in Pakistan's Sindh province. The temple management approached the Ministry of Home Affairs and urged the authorities to allow visas for these families to enable them to travel to India. The MHA then authorised special air-travel conditional visas, allowing the first major batch of brides to arrive between April and August 2026"Since April this year, 150 brides and their families from Pakistan have travelled to India via Dubai, Oman, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh and other countries for the weddings. These include 15 cases from Nagpur," said Jhambia.&nbsp;Currently, community leader Jhambia said that nearly 300 more Pakistani-Sindhi women have requested the Indian government to issue visas to them as well and remain on the waiting list.&nbsp;

Over 150 Pakistani Sindhi brides have reached India for weddings after the Pahalgam terror attack, Operation Sindoor and the closure of the Wagah-Attari border.

Over 150 Pakistani Sindhi brides who were previously engaged to Indian men but could not travel to India in the wake of the Pahalgam terror attack, followed by Operation Sindoor and the closure of the Wagah-Attari border, have finally managed to travel to the country for their wedding plans. Community leader Rajesh Jhambia said that the Union Government later issued visas to the brides and their relatives, allowing them to reach India through transit routes in other countries. “The long wait is over, finally,” Jhambia said on Sunday. Jhambia, who works for Sindhi migrants from Pakistan, told PTI that the brides and approximately 450 accompanying relatives were mandated to travel strictly by air and utilising connecting flights to reach India. "The brides and their kin have arrived in India through transit routes via Muscat, Dubai, Sri Lanka and other countries," said Jhambia. Jhambia said that due to hassle free visa and movement through the Wagah-Attari border had allowed families from Pakistan's Sindh province to engage in cross-border matrimonial relationships. However, following the major terrorist attack that occurred in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, leaving 26 civilians dead. India, in response, launched Operation Sindoor and closed off the Wagah-Attari gates, cancelling land border cross-country travel. "There were about 150 brides who were to be married in Nagpur, Raipur, Jodhpur, Pune and other cities in India," said Jhambia. Also Read: US envoy Sergio Gor claims India sought ‘no questions’ after Modi-Trump G7 meeting They then approached the Raipur-based Sant Yudhishtirlal Shadaani, spiritual head of Shadaani Darbar, a prominent Hindu religious shrine in Ghotki in Pakistan's Sindh province. The temple management approached the Ministry of Home Affairs and urged the authorities to allow visas for these families to enable them to travel to India. The MHA then authorised special air-travel conditional visas, allowing the first major batch of brides to arrive between April and August 2026 "Since April this year, 150 brides and their families from Pakistan have travelled to India via Dubai, Oman, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh and other countries for the weddings. These include 15 cases from Nagpur," said Jhambia. Currently, community leader Jhambia said that nearly 300 more Pakistani-Sindhi women have requested the Indian government to issue visas to them as well and remain on the waiting list.

Over 150 Pakistani Sindhi brides have reached India for weddings after the Pahalgam terror attack, Operation Sindoor and the closure of the Wagah-Attari border.

150 Pakistani Sindhi brides reach India for weddings months after Pahalgam attack, Operation Sindoor

Former Indian diplomat Navdeep Suri has raised strong concerns regarding the verification process under the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in Punjab, questioning the ordeal faced by ordinary citizens to prove their identity. Suri, a retired Indian Foreign Service (IFS) officer who served as India's High Commissioner to Australia and Ambassador to the UAE and Egypt, revealed on social media platform X that he was flagged during the voter roll update in Punjab. The state is among 16 states and Union Territories undergoing the third phase of the nationwide revision drive. According to Suri, he initially submitted his voter ID and Aadhaar card to the local Booth Level Officer (BLO) and was assured that his documents were in order. However, officials later informed him that his details failed to match the 2003 electoral rolls—the benchmark list being referenced by election authorities to cross-check voters. He was subsequently issued an official notice and asked to present additional, unspecified documents to verify his Indian citizenship.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maharashtra-sir-over-2-crore-voter-enumeration-forms-remain-uncollected-1787038451485">Maharashtra SIR: Over 2 crore voter enumeration forms remain uncollected</a>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Dear <a href="https://x.com/ECISVEEP?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ECISVEEP</a> Sharing my experience with <a href="https://x.com/hashtag/SIR?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SIR</a> in Punjab. Went to BLO, submitted Voter ID and Aadhaar card, was assured that everything is in order. Got a message today from a volunteer saying some details don’t match with SIR in 2003! 1 -&mdash; Navdeep Suri (@navdeepsuri) <a href="https://x.com/navdeepsuri/status/2091404867126620424?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 23, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;When Suri clarified that he was posted abroad on diplomatic duty in 2003 and could not have been present on local rolls at the time, officials requested his Indian passport as proof of citizenship. While Suri noted that he possessed the necessary documentation to clear the hurdle, he voiced sharp skepticism over the bureaucratic burden placed on the general public.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-lauds-india-s-election-system-rising-anger-in-india-at-sir-exclusion-gravitas-1787076759629">Trump lauds India's election system, rising anger in India at SIR exclusion | Gravitas</a> &nbsp;"If I have trouble establishing my citizenship after representing India in three countries, what's the fate of the common citizen? Ease of living, I presume!" Suri wrote, tagging the Election Commission of India. The incident highlights growing criticisms surrounding the SIR exercise, which began its first phase in Bihar before expanding nationwide. While the Supreme Court upheld the legality of the voter roll revision, it clarified that the process does not empower the Election Commission to act as an authority for determining citizenship. Suri’s experience has reignited debates over potential voter disenfranchisement and the operational hurdles of the verification framework.

Former Indian diplomat Navdeep Suri raises concerns over the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) voter verification process in Punjab after being flagged despite submitting his Aadhaar card and voter ID.

Former Indian diplomat Navdeep Suri has raised strong concerns regarding the verification process under the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in Punjab, questioning the ordeal faced by ordinary citizens to prove their identity. Suri, a retired Indian Foreign Service (IFS) officer who served as India's High Commissioner to Australia and Ambassador to the UAE and Egypt, revealed on social media platform X that he was flagged during the voter roll update in Punjab. The state is among 16 states and Union Territories undergoing the third phase of the nationwide revision drive. According to Suri, he initially submitted his voter ID and Aadhaar card to the local Booth Level Officer (BLO) and was assured that his documents were in order. However, officials later informed him that his details failed to match the 2003 electoral rolls—the benchmark list being referenced by election authorities to cross-check voters. He was subsequently issued an official notice and asked to present additional, unspecified documents to verify his Indian citizenship. Also read: Maharashtra SIR: Over 2 crore voter enumeration forms remain uncollected

Former Indian diplomat Navdeep Suri raises concerns over the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) voter verification process in Punjab after being flagged despite submitting his Aadhaar card and voter ID.

‘What's the fate of the common citizen?’: Ex-diplomat flags ordeal in Punjab SIR drive

US envoy Sergio Gor claimed that the Indian Ministry of External Affairs had made a request ahead of the meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump during the G7 summit. He claimed that the Ministry of External Affairs had asked for “no questions” after the leaders finished their opening remarks.“We were behind the scenes, behind the stage, and at one point it was just the president and I, and he asked me, he goes, what are the Indians going to raise? We went over some topics. And he said, " Do they have any asks? And the MEA had one ask. He said, and it was, let's bring in the media, but let's not do a full press conference," said Gor at the Economic Times World Leaders Forum.“I told the president, I said, the Indians prefer no questions. He said, sure, no problem. So the meeting starts, the press comes in, there must have been 50 cameras, the president is sitting here, the prime minister is sitting there, they both speak for a few minutes. As soon as they get done, the first thing the president does he looks up at the camera and says, any questions?” said Sergio Gor.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-airstrikes-gaza-kill-two-amid-ceasefire-1787498033928">Israel airstrikes kill 2 in Gaza, including 4-year-old boy, amid ceasefire</a>Gor added that a 45-minute press conference with reporters raised a wide range of issues and “everything was on the table”.&nbsp;US Ambassador Sergio Gor shared the anecdote while discussing the India-US relationship and the personal friendship between US President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi.&nbsp;"The numbers don't lie. If you look at the trajectory of our relationship, just go by the numbers," he said."15 years ago, our bilateral trade was 20 billion dollars. Today, it's 240 billion dollars. That's not an accident, and it's continuing to grow," said Gor. The forum took place right after Gor's historic trip to Srinagar, where he publicly called Jammu &amp; Kashmir "an important part of India," sparking a diplomatic protest from Pakistan.&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">“India specifically requested that there should be no press conference and no press questions during the Trump Modi meet at G7.” ~ US ambassador Sergio Gor. Rahul Gandhi was so right about him, when he said he will be destroyed within seconds if he faces the Press. <a href="https://t.co/TwDdIkAYQ0">pic.twitter.com/TwDdIkAYQ0</a>&mdash; Jitesh (@Chaotic_mind99) <a href="https://x.com/Chaotic_mind99/status/2091548020169134563?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 23, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

US envoy Sergio Gor claimed India’s MEA requested no questions from the media after Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Donald Trump delivered opening remarks at their G7 meeting.

US envoy Sergio Gor claimed that the Indian Ministry of External Affairs had made a request ahead of the meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump during the G7 summit. He claimed that the Ministry of External Affairs had asked for “no questions” after the leaders finished their opening remarks. “We were behind the scenes, behind the stage, and at one point it was just the president and I, and he asked me, he goes, what are the Indians going to raise? We went over some topics. And he said, " Do they have any asks? And the MEA had one ask. He said, and it was, let's bring in the media, but let's not do a full press conference," said Gor at the Economic Times World Leaders Forum. “I told the president, I said, the Indians prefer no questions. He said, sure, no problem. So the meeting starts, the press comes in, there must have been 50 cameras, the president is sitting here, the prime minister is sitting there, they both speak for a few minutes. As soon as they get done, the first thing the president does he looks up at the camera and says, any questions?” said Sergio Gor. Also Read: Israel airstrikes kill 2 in Gaza, including 4-year-old boy, amid ceasefire Gor added that a 45-minute press conference with reporters raised a wide range of issues and “everything was on the table”. US Ambassador Sergio Gor shared the anecdote while discussing the India-US relationship and the personal friendship between US President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. "The numbers don't lie. If you look at the trajectory of our relationship, just go by the numbers," he said. "15 years ago, our bilateral trade was 20 billion dollars. Today, it's 240 billion dollars. That's not an accident, and it's continuing to grow," said Gor. The forum took place right after Gor's historic trip to Srinagar, where he publicly called Jammu & Kashmir "an important part of India," sparking a diplomatic protest from Pakistan.

US envoy Sergio Gor claimed India’s MEA requested no questions from the media after Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Donald Trump delivered opening remarks at their G7 meeting.

US envoy Sergio Gor claims India sought ‘no questions’ after Modi-Trump G7 meeting

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Sunday searched the premises of IAS officer Gyanendra Kumar Gangwar in Bengaluru and Bareilly as part of its money laundering investigation into alleged irregularities in an examination conducted by the Karnataka Public Service Commission (KPSC), officials said.&nbsp;Gangwar, a 2016-batch Indian Administrative Service officer, is currently serving as Director-MSME in the Karnataka Department of Industries and Commerce. He previously served as Controller of Examinations at the KPSC and was removed from the position in March this year, according to news agency PTI. The searches at Gangwar’s premises in Bengaluru and Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh, were conducted under the provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). Officials said it was not immediately known whether Gangwar was present at either location during the searches.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/humane-treatment-and-proper-medical-care-sunil-gavaskar-kapil-dev-among-21-former-captains-to-appeal-pak-pm-for-imran-khan-1787497194755">'Humane treatment and proper medical care': Sunil Gavaskar, Kapil Dev among 21 former captains to appeal Pak PM for Imran Khan</a>&nbsp;The development comes a day after reports claimed that Gangwar had gone ‘missing’ for a few hours. Karnataka Home Minister Priyank Kharge subsequently dismissed the reports, stating that Gangwar was in his native place in Uttar Pradesh due to a family emergency concerning his father’s health.&nbsp;The latest searches were conducted days after the ED launched its first round of searches in the case on August 18. During that operation, the agency searched the KPSC office in Bengaluru as well as the premises of former chairman Shivashankarappa S Sahukar, member Shanta Hosmani and others. The ED investigation is connected to an alleged money laundering case involving irregularities in a KPSC recruitment examination for veterinary officers.&nbsp;This is not the ED’s first action in the case. On August 18, the agency searched the KPSC headquarters in Bengaluru, along with the premises of former chairman Shivashankarappa S Sahukar, member Shanta Hosmani and others. The wider investigation focuses on alleged financial irregularities in the recruitment examination for Veterinary Officers.

ED searches IAS officer Gyanendra Kumar Gangwar’s Bengaluru and Bareilly premises in a money laundering probe linked to alleged KPSC exam irregularities

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Sunday searched the premises of IAS officer Gyanendra Kumar Gangwar in Bengaluru and Bareilly as part of its money laundering investigation into alleged irregularities in an examination conducted by the Karnataka Public Service Commission (KPSC), officials said. Gangwar, a 2016-batch Indian Administrative Service officer, is currently serving as Director-MSME in the Karnataka Department of Industries and Commerce. He previously served as Controller of Examinations at the KPSC and was removed from the position in March this year, according to news agency PTI. The searches at Gangwar’s premises in Bengaluru and Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh, were conducted under the provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). Officials said it was not immediately known whether Gangwar was present at either location during the searches. Also Read: 'Humane treatment and proper medical care': Sunil Gavaskar, Kapil Dev among 21 former captains to appeal Pak PM for Imran Khan The development comes a day after reports claimed that Gangwar had gone ‘missing’ for a few hours. Karnataka Home Minister Priyank Kharge subsequently dismissed the reports, stating that Gangwar was in his native place in Uttar Pradesh due to a family emergency concerning his father’s health. The latest searches were conducted days after the ED launched its first round of searches in the case on August 18. During that operation, the agency searched the KPSC office in Bengaluru as well as the premises of former chairman Shivashankarappa S Sahukar, member Shanta Hosmani and others. The ED investigation is connected to an alleged money laundering case involving irregularities in a KPSC recruitment examination for veterinary officers. This is not the ED’s first action in the case. On August 18, the agency searched the KPSC headquarters in Bengaluru, along with the premises of former chairman Shivashankarappa S Sahukar, member Shanta Hosmani and others. The wider investigation focuses on alleged financial irregularities in the recruitment examination for Veterinary Officers.

ED searches IAS officer Gyanendra Kumar Gangwar’s Bengaluru and Bareilly premises in a PMLA probe into alleged KPSC veterinary exam irregularities

KPSC exam scam probe: ED raids IAS officer Gyanendra Gangwar’s Bengaluru, Bareilly premises over irregularities

A group of 21 former international cricket captains, including India legends Sunil Gavaskar and Kapil Dev, has renewed its appeal to Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, calling on his government to ensure “humane treatment and proper medical care” for former Pakistan captain and prime minister Imran Khan. The latest appeal, issued on August 23, comes amid growing concerns about Khan’s health and follows recent developments involving a court-directed medical examination. The 73-year-old former Pakistan captain has been in custody for more than three years.&nbsp;The latest letter comes six months after an initial appeal signed by 14 former international captains. Seven additional former captains have now joined the group. In their latest communication to Sharif, the former cricketers stressed that their intervention was motivated by their shared history with Khan on the cricket field and was not intended to interfere in Pakistan’s political affairs. "Dear Prime Minister, six months ago, fourteen former international cricket captains wrote to you and the Pakistani government appealing for humane treatment and proper medical care for Imran Khan. We wrote then not as politicians, but as former colleagues and rivals who share a bond forged on the cricket field, one that transcends the borders and disputes that too often divide countries. We write again now, joined by seven further former captains, because of what has reportedly just occurred," they wrote.&nbsp;The former captains pointed to a Pakistan Supreme Court order directing that Khan be moved to a hospital for examination by a medical board that would include his personal physicians and his sister, Dr Uzma Khan. The court had also restored weekly family visits. "Pakistan's Supreme Court ordered that Imran Khan be transferred to a hospital for examination by a medical board that was to include his own personal physicians and his sister, Dr Uzma Khan. The Court also reinstated weekly family visits. These were very welcome steps," the letter said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/crowd-favourite-an-se-young-clinches-her-second-title-at-bwf-world-championships-1787492797944">Crowd favourite An Se-Young clinches her second title at BWF World Championships</a>&nbsp;However, the signatories expressed concern over what they described as the subsequent handling of the medical examination. "Concerningly, Mr Khan's hospital stay lasted only a few hours. He was examined by a state-appointed team rather than the board the Court had directed, declared 'medically fit,' and returned to Adiala Jail before that board could complete its work. His family and legal team say this falls short of what the court ordered," it added.&nbsp;The former captains made three specific requests in their renewed appeal. First, they called for the medical board ordered by the Supreme Court to be allowed to carry out a full and independent assessment of Khan’s health, including concerns about reported loss of vision in his right eye. Second, they urged authorities to implement the weekly family visits restored by the court without interruptions or administrative delays. Third, they called for any medical treatment recommended following the assessment to be provided without delay.&nbsp;The group reiterated that it was not attempting to take a position on Pakistan’s domestic political or legal disputes. "We're not asking Pakistan for anything unusual, just that a court order most countries would take for granted is actually carried out. We do not presume to adjudicate Pakistan's domestic legal processes. That is not our place, and it was not the spirit in which we wrote in February," they wrote.&nbsp;The former captains then formally restated their demands: "But we do ask, again, respectfully: 1. That the medical board directed by the Supreme Court, including Mr Khan's own doctors, be permitted to complete a full and independent assessment of his health, particularly the reported loss of vision in his right eye. 2. That the weekly family visits reinstated by the Court be honoured without interruption or administrative delay," the letter stated.&nbsp;They followed this with their third request for Khan to receive any treatment deemed necessary after the medical assessment."3. That whatever the outcome of that medical assessment, the treatment recommended by it be provided without delay. Imran Khan is 73 years old and has now spent more than three years in custody," they wrote.&nbsp;The former cricketers said that regardless of the legal and political issues surrounding Khan’s case, completing a court-ordered medical process should be viewed as a basic matter of fairness and dignity. "Whatever the legal and political arguments surrounding his case, the basic decency of ensuring a court-ordered medical process is actually completed is not, in our view, a controversial request. It is one we believe every nation that plays this game would recognise as fair."&nbsp;The letter ended with a call for a swift resolution and respectful treatment of the former Pakistan captain. "We hope this matter can be resolved expeditiously and with the dignity Mr Imran Khan deserves. Yours in cricket," the former captains added.<h2>Who signed the appeal?</h2>The signatories include prominent former captains from England, Australia, India, the West Indies, Sri Lanka and New Zealand.England is represented by Michael Atherton, Michael Brearley, Sir Alastair Cook, David Gower, Nasser Hussain and Sir Andrew Strauss. Australia’s signatories include Allan Border, Greg Chappell, Ian Chappell, Kim Hughes and Stephen Waugh. India is represented by Kapil Dev, Sunil Gavaskar and Dilip Vengsarkar. The other prominent names include former West Indies captain Sir Clive Lloyd, former Sri Lanka captain Arjuna Ranatunga and former New Zealand captain John Wright.

21 former cricket captains including Sunil Gavaskar and Kapil Dev renew their appeal to Shehbaz Sharif for humane treatment and medical care for Imran Khan

A group of 21 former international cricket captains, including India legends Sunil Gavaskar and Kapil Dev, has renewed its appeal to Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, calling on his government to ensure “humane treatment and proper medical care” for former Pakistan captain and prime minister Imran Khan. The latest appeal, issued on August 23, comes amid growing concerns about Khan’s health and follows recent developments involving a court-directed medical examination. The 73-year-old former Pakistan captain has been in custody for more than three years. The latest letter comes six months after an initial appeal signed by 14 former international captains. Seven additional former captains have now joined the group. In their latest communication to Sharif, the former cricketers stressed that their intervention was motivated by their shared history with Khan on the cricket field and was not intended to interfere in Pakistan’s political affairs. "Dear Prime Minister, six months ago, fourteen former international cricket captains wrote to you and the Pakistani government appealing for humane treatment and proper medical care for Imran Khan. We wrote then not as politicians, but as former colleagues and rivals who share a bond forged on the cricket field, one that transcends the borders and disputes that too often divide countries. We write again now, joined by seven further former captains, because of what has reportedly just occurred," they wrote. The former captains pointed to a Pakistan Supreme Court order directing that Khan be moved to a hospital for examination by a medical board that would include his personal physicians and his sister, Dr Uzma Khan. The court had also restored weekly family visits. "Pakistan's Supreme Court ordered that Imran Khan be transferred to a hospital for examination by a medical board that was to include his own personal physicians and his sister, Dr Uzma Khan. The Court also reinstated weekly family visits. These were very welcome steps," the letter said. Also Read: Crowd favourite An Se-Young clinches her second title at BWF World Championships However, the signatories expressed concern over what they described as the subsequent handling of the medical examination. "Concerningly, Mr Khan's hospital stay lasted only a few hours. He was examined by a state-appointed team rather than the board the Court had directed, declared 'medically fit,' and returned to Adiala Jail before that board could complete its work. His family and legal team say this falls short of what the court ordered," it added. The former captains made three specific requests in their renewed appeal. First, they called for the medical board ordered by the Supreme Court to be allowed to carry out a full and independent assessment of Khan’s health, including concerns about reported loss of vision in his right eye. Second, they urged authorities to implement the weekly family visits restored by the court without interruptions or administrative delays. Third, they called for any medical treatment recommended following the assessment to be provided without delay. The group reiterated that it was not attempting to take a position on Pakistan’s domestic political or legal disputes. "We're not asking Pakistan for anything unusual, just that a court order most countries would take for granted is actually carried out. We do not presume to adjudicate Pakistan's domestic legal processes. That is not our place, and it was not the spirit in which we wrote in February," they wrote. The former captains then formally restated their demands: "But we do ask, again, respectfully: 1. That the medical board directed by the Supreme Court, including Mr Khan's own doctors, be permitted to complete a full and independent assessment of his health, particularly the reported loss of vision in his right eye. 2. That the weekly family visits reinstated by the Court be honoured without interruption or administrative delay," the letter stated. They followed this with their third request for Khan to receive any treatment deemed necessary after the medical assessment. "3. That whatever the outcome of that medical assessment, the treatment recommended by it be provided without delay. Imran Khan is 73 years old and has now spent more than three years in custody," they wrote. The former cricketers said that regardless of the legal and political issues surrounding Khan’s case, completing a court-ordered medical process should be viewed as a basic matter of fairness and dignity. "Whatever the legal and political arguments surrounding his case, the basic decency of ensuring a court-ordered medical process is actually completed is not, in our view, a controversial request. It is one we believe every nation that plays this game would recognise as fair." The letter ended with a call for a swift resolution and respectful treatment of the former Pakistan captain. "We hope this matter can be resolved expeditiously and with the dignity Mr Imran Khan deserves. Yours in cricket," the former captains added. Who signed the appeal? The signatories include prominent former captains from England, Australia, India, the West Indies, Sri Lanka and New Zealand. England is represented by Michael Atherton, Michael Brearley, Sir Alastair Cook, David Gower, Nasser Hussain and Sir Andrew Strauss. Australia’s signatories include Allan Border, Greg Chappell, Ian Chappell, Kim Hughes and Stephen Waugh. India is represented by Kapil Dev, Sunil Gavaskar and Dilip Vengsarkar. The other prominent names include former West Indies captain Sir Clive Lloyd, former Sri Lanka captain Arjuna Ranatunga and former New Zealand captain John Wright.

21 former cricket captains, including Gavaskar and Kapil Dev, urge Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif to ensure Imran Khan gets medical care and dignity

'Humane treatment and proper medical care': Sunil Gavaskar, Kapil Dev among 21 former captains to appeal Pak PM for Imran Khan

Mumbai: A tragic family incident in Maharashtra’s Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar district has taken a new turn after police revealed that the 18-year-old man who died after falling from a hilltop had allegedly attempted suicide from the same location a year earlier.&nbsp;The development has emerged during the investigation into the deaths of three members of the same family at Khavdya Hill in the Tisgaon area on Friday.&nbsp;The deceased have been identified as 18-year-old Kunal Murlidhar Chandwade, his father Murlidhar Chandwade and mother Sangeeta Chandwade.&nbsp;According to police, Kunal had attempted suicide from Khavdya Hill in 2025 but survived. Investigators are now examining the earlier incident as they try to understand the circumstances that led to Friday’s tragedy.&nbsp;<h2>Teen spent hours near cliff edge</h2>&nbsp;The incident reportedly took place after a dispute began between Kunal and his parents. The disagreement was allegedly linked to an iPhone purchased on instalments and a pending payment.&nbsp;Following the argument, Kunal went to Khavdya Hill.&nbsp;Police said he reached the location at around 10 am and remained close to the edge of the cliff for several hours. His parents followed him and tried to convince him to return.&nbsp;Local residents, police personnel and fire brigade officials also joined the efforts to bring him to safety.&nbsp;According to reports, Kunal remained at the spot despite repeated attempts to persuade him to move away from the edge.&nbsp;<h2>Rescue attempt ends in tragedy</h2>&nbsp;The situation turned fatal when Kunal eventually fell from the hill.&nbsp;His father, Murlidhar also fell from the cliff while trying to reach and save him. His mother Sangeeta, who had been attempting to persuade Kunal to step back, subsequently fell as well.&nbsp;All three members of the family died.&nbsp;The incident initially appeared to have stemmed from a family dispute. However, the revelation about Kunal’s previous attempt from the same location has prompted investigators to look more closely at the circumstances surrounding his actions.&nbsp;<h2>Previous incident becomes key part of probe</h2>&nbsp;Police are now examining what happened during Kunal’s alleged suicide attempt in 2025 and whether there were any warning signs or circumstances that could help explain Friday’s incident.&nbsp;The earlier attempt does not, by itself, establish a particular reason for his actions. Investigators are also looking into whether the dispute over the phone payment was the immediate trigger or whether other factors were involved.&nbsp;The reported iPhone dispute is therefore being treated as part of the sequence of events rather than a confirmed explanation for the tragedy.&nbsp;The case has shocked residents of the Tisgaon area, particularly because of the reported attempts by Kunal’s parents, police and local residents to prevent him from approaching the cliff edge.&nbsp;Authorities are continuing to reconstruct the events leading up to the deaths and are examining Kunal’s previous suicide bid at Khavdya Hill as part of the probe.

Police said Kunal Murlidhar Chandwade reached the location at around 10 am and remained close to the edge of the cliff for several hours. His parents tried to convince him to return. Local residents, police personnel and fire brigade officials also joined the efforts to bring him to safety.

Mumbai: A tragic family incident in Maharashtra’s Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar district has taken a new turn after police revealed that the 18-year-old man who died after falling from a hilltop had allegedly attempted suicide from the same location a year earlier. The development has emerged during the investigation into the deaths of three members of the same family at Khavdya Hill in the Tisgaon area on Friday. The deceased have been identified as 18-year-old Kunal Murlidhar Chandwade, his father Murlidhar Chandwade and mother Sangeeta Chandwade. According to police, Kunal had attempted suicide from Khavdya Hill in 2025 but survived. Investigators are now examining the earlier incident as they try to understand the circumstances that led to Friday’s tragedy. Teen spent hours near cliff edge The incident reportedly took place after a dispute began between Kunal and his parents. The disagreement was allegedly linked to an iPhone purchased on instalments and a pending payment. Following the argument, Kunal went to Khavdya Hill. Police said he reached the location at around 10 am and remained close to the edge of the cliff for several hours. His parents followed him and tried to convince him to return. Local residents, police personnel and fire brigade officials also joined the efforts to bring him to safety. According to reports, Kunal remained at the spot despite repeated attempts to persuade him to move away from the edge. Rescue attempt ends in tragedy The situation turned fatal when Kunal eventually fell from the hill. His father, Murlidhar also fell from the cliff while trying to reach and save him. His mother Sangeeta, who had been attempting to persuade Kunal to step back, subsequently fell as well. All three members of the family died. The incident initially appeared to have stemmed from a family dispute. However, the revelation about Kunal’s previous attempt from the same location has prompted investigators to look more closely at the circumstances surrounding his actions. Previous incident becomes key part of probe Police are now examining what happened during Kunal’s alleged suicide attempt in 2025 and whether there were any warning signs or circumstances that could help explain Friday’s incident. The earlier attempt does not, by itself, establish a particular reason for his actions. Investigators are also looking into whether the dispute over the phone payment was the immediate trigger or whether other factors were involved. The reported iPhone dispute is therefore being treated as part of the sequence of events rather than a confirmed explanation for the tragedy. The case has shocked residents of the Tisgaon area, particularly because of the reported attempts by Kunal’s parents, police and local residents to prevent him from approaching the cliff edge. Authorities are continuing to reconstruct the events leading up to the deaths and are examining Kunal’s previous suicide bid at Khavdya Hill as part of the probe.

Police said Kunal Murlidhar Chandwade reached the location at around 10 am and remained close to the edge of the cliff for several hours. His parents tried to convince him to return. Local residents, police personnel and fire brigade officials also joined the efforts to bring him to safety.

Maharashtra family deaths: Teen had attempted suicide from same hill a year earlier

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Maharashtra family deaths: Teen attempted suicide from same hill a year earlier