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Security has been intensified across Jammu and Kashmir ahead of Independence Day celebrations, with authorities implementing a three-tier security system to ensure the smooth and peaceful conduct of functions throughout the Union Territory, particularly in the Kashmir Valley.&nbsp;The main Independence Day function will be held at Bakshi Stadium in Srinagar, where the Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir and the Chief Minister are scheduled to preside over the celebrations.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-s-80th-independence-day-from-1947-to-2026-how-the-country-s-map-changed-over-80-years-1786422165717">India’s 80th Independence Day: From 1947 to 2026 - How the country's map changed over 80 years</a>&nbsp;Police and paramilitary deployments have been significantly increased across the region. Security checkpoints, frisking and additional deployments have been established at key locations, particularly along routes connecting Srinagar with various districts of north and south Kashmir.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-hc-receives-bomb-threat-via-email-1786693313819">Delhi High Court receives bomb threat via email ahead of India's 80th Independence Day</a>&nbsp;Security agencies have also intensified their vigil following inputs indicating that terrorist groups could attempt to carry out attacks around Independence Day, particularly in the Kashmir division. Authorities have consequently strengthened security arrangements at sensitive locations and around venues hosting official functions.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/air-india-pilot-tests-positive-for-marijuana-again-can-a-pilot-fly-after-testing-positive-for-drugs-india-us-and-uk-rules-explained-1786525753858">Air India pilot tests positive for Marijuana again: Can a pilot fly after testing positive for drugs? India, US and UK rules explained</a>&nbsp;In Baramulla district, security measures have been further tightened ahead of the August 15 celebrations. Security forces have stepped up checking and frisking at major entry points, markets and other sensitive locations.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/vande-mataram-inquilab-zindabad-indian-nationalism-1786630344563">Vande Mataram and Inquilab Zindabad: Two slogans, two visions of Indian nationalism</a>&nbsp;Additional personnel have been deployed, while round-the-clock patrolling is being conducted across the district to monitor movement and prevent any potential security threat. Authorities said the enhanced security measures are aimed at ensuring that Independence Day celebrations are held peacefully and without disruption.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Security has been intensified across Jammu and Kashmir ahead of Independence Day, with a three-tier system deployed to counter potential terrorist threats and ensure peaceful celebrations across all districts.

Security has been intensified across Jammu and Kashmir ahead of Independence Day celebrations, with authorities implementing a three-tier security system to ensure the smooth and peaceful conduct of functions throughout the Union Territory, particularly in the Kashmir Valley. The main Independence Day function will be held at Bakshi Stadium in Srinagar, where the Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir and the Chief Minister are scheduled to preside over the celebrations. Also read: India’s 80th Independence Day: From 1947 to 2026 - How the country's map changed over 80 years Police and paramilitary deployments have been significantly increased across the region. Security checkpoints, frisking and additional deployments have been established at key locations, particularly along routes connecting Srinagar with various districts of north and south Kashmir. Also read: Delhi High Court receives bomb threat via email ahead of India's 80th Independence Day Security agencies have also intensified their vigil following inputs indicating that terrorist groups could attempt to carry out attacks around Independence Day, particularly in the Kashmir division. Authorities have consequently strengthened security arrangements at sensitive locations and around venues hosting official functions. Also read: Air India pilot tests positive for Marijuana again: Can a pilot fly after testing positive for drugs? India, US and UK rules explained In Baramulla district, security measures have been further tightened ahead of the August 15 celebrations. Security forces have stepped up checking and frisking at major entry points, markets and other sensitive locations. Also read: Vande Mataram and Inquilab Zindabad: Two slogans, two visions of Indian nationalism Additional personnel have been deployed, while round-the-clock patrolling is being conducted across the district to monitor movement and prevent any potential security threat. Authorities said the enhanced security measures are aimed at ensuring that Independence Day celebrations are held peacefully and without disruption.

Security has been intensified across Jammu and Kashmir ahead of Independence Day, with a three-tier system deployed to counter potential terrorist threats and ensure peaceful celebrations across all districts.

Security tightened across J&K ahead of Independence Day celebrations

From kings and chieftains to common people, dozens from present-day Kerala laid down their lives in the struggle against British colonial rule and for India's independence. Kerala's contribution to India's freedom struggle spans early 19th-century princely-state revolts against the East India Company and, later, the 20th-century nationalist, peasant and labour movements in the erstwhile Travancore, Cochin and Malabar regions.<h2>Pazhassi Raja: The king who fought the British East India Company</h2>Kerala Varma Pazhassi Raja is widely regarded as one of Kerala's earliest and most significant anti-British leaders. Known as Kerala Simham, or the Lion of Kerala, the de facto ruler of Kottayam led a prolonged guerrilla resistance against the British East India Company, known in British records as the Cotiote War, from 1793 until his death in 1805. He opposed the Company's revenue policies and its growing control over Kottayam, Malabar and Wayanad. He got support from groups including the Kurichiya tribal community. Pazhassi Raja was killed in a British operation near Mavila Todu in Wayanad on 30 November 1805. The Cotiote War was one of the longest sustained armed resistances to Company rule in the region.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-independence-day-2026-7-books-that-capture-the-pain-of-partition-1786451356293">India Independence Day 2026: 7 books that capture the pain of Partition</a><h2>Velu Thampi Dalawa: The official who preferred death to surrender</h2>One of the major early anti-colonial administrators, Velayudhan Chempakaraman Thampi, better known as Velu Thampi Dalawa, was the Dewan, or Prime Minister, of Travancore. He led the 1808–09 revolt against British interference in Travancore, including opposition to the growing powers exercised by the British Resident, Colonel Colin Macaulay, under what was known as the ‘subsidiary alliance’. He issued the famous Kundara Proclamation on 11 January 1809, calling on the people to resist British rule. After his forces suffered defeats, Velu Thampi was cornered at Mannadi. Rather than be captured, he took his own life in March 1809. His body was displayed by the British as a warning to others.Paliyath Achan, from the hereditary Cochin family of chief ministers, was a key ally of Velu Thampi. He led opposition to British influence in the Cochin state and took part in the revolt. He surrendered to the British and was exiled first to Madras and later to Benares, where he died in 1835.Vaikom Padmanabha Pillai, a military officer and Nair militia leader in Travancore, joined Velu Thampi's revolt and served as one of its military commanders. He was involved in attacks on British forces and was captured in 1809. He was subsequently publicly hanged by the British.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/delhi-gears-up-for-80th-independence-day-with-red-fort-rehearsal-1786631413268/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/delhi-gears-up-for-80th-independence-day-with-red-fort-rehearsal-1786631413268/embed</a><h2>20th-century nationalist, peasant, labour and political martyrs</h2>Besides these prominent leaders, hundreds of ordinary people laid down their lives in the struggle against British rule and the autocratic princely administrations. Peasant and labour movements in Malabar often combined opposition to colonial rule with resistance to the power of jenmis, or landlords.The Kayyur peasant struggle in present-day Kasaragod district was one such movement. The uprising of March 1941 grew out of tensions involving peasants, jenmi landlords and the British administration. Four young activists — Madathil Appu, Koyithattil Chirukandan, Podora Kunhambu Nair and Pallikkal Aboobacker — were sentenced to death and hanged at Kannur Central Jail on 29 March 1943 in connection with the killing of a police constable during the uprising.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/independence-day-2026-historical-sites-that-reveal-untold-story-of-india-s-freedom-struggle-1786524720053">Independence Day 2026: Historical sites that reveal untold story of India’s freedom struggle</a><h2>Neyyattinkara firing martyrs</h2>On 31 August 1938, during the movement for responsible government in Travancore, demonstrators gathered at Neyyattinkara following the arrest of NK Padmanabha Pillai, the acting president of the Travancore State Congress. Travancore State Forces opened fire on the protesters near the bus stand. Those killed included Athazhamangalam Raghavan, popularly known as Veeraraghavan, Kalluvila Podiyan, Nadoorkolla Kuttan Pillai, Varuvilakom Muthan Pillai, Maruthur Vasudevan, Kanchampazhinji Kuttappan Nair and Varuvilakom Padmanabhan Pillai. A woman named Kali was also killed, bringing the reported death toll to eight.<h2>The INA's Penang group: Kerala members who faced the gallows</h2>Some Malayali freedom fighters were part of the network associated with Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose's Indian National Army (INA) and the Indian Independence League in Southeast Asia. Among the 20 members of the so-called Penang group who entered India in 1942, several were from Kerala. They were arrested and tried by the British on charges including conspiracy to wage war against the King and acting as enemy agents. The Kerala members who faced the death penalty included Vakkom Abdul Khader and Anandan. Khader and Anandan were among the four members of the group who were hanged at Madras Jail on 10 September 1943, along with Satyendra Chandra Bardhan of Tripura and Fauja Singh of Punjab.<h2>Peasant uprisings to the Wagon Tragedy: The deaths of common freedom fighters</h2>There were violent confrontations between the colonial authorities and several popular movements in the final decades of British rule in Kerala. Some of the anger of the people were directed at local rulers and landlords. Martyrs of these struggles included those who died at Karivellur, Morazha and elsewhere in Malabar. The Morazha protest of September 1940, for example, saw a clash between demonstrators and the police in which two police personnel and two young protesters were killed.Several participants from Kerala were also killed or injured during the Civil Disobedience and Quit India movements, including in police firings and other clashes in Travancore and Malabar.The Wagon Tragedy took place in November 1921 during the repression that followed the Malabar Rebellion. Prisoners arrested in connection with the uprising were being transported by train from Tirur towards prisons outside Malabar. Around 100 prisoners were packed into a closed goods wagon; 64 were found dead when the wagon was opened at Podanur, and six more later died, taking the death toll to 70. Most of those who died were Mappila Muslim prisoners. The incident became one of the most notorious episodes of colonial repression during the Malabar Rebellion.

India Independence Day 2026: Here is a tribute remembering Kerala's freedom martyrs, from Pazhassi Raja and Velu Thampi Dalawa to scores of common people who died in Kayyur, Neyyattinkara and elsewhere, as well as the victims of the infamous Wagon Tragedy.

From kings and chieftains to common people, dozens from present-day Kerala laid down their lives in the struggle against British colonial rule and for India's independence. Kerala's contribution to India's freedom struggle spans early 19th-century princely-state revolts against the East India Company and, later, the 20th-century nationalist, peasant and labour movements in the erstwhile Travancore, Cochin and Malabar regions. Pazhassi Raja: The king who fought the British East India Company Kerala Varma Pazhassi Raja is widely regarded as one of Kerala's earliest and most significant anti-British leaders. Known as Kerala Simham, or the Lion of Kerala, the de facto ruler of Kottayam led a prolonged guerrilla resistance against the British East India Company, known in British records as the Cotiote War, from 1793 until his death in 1805. He opposed the Company's revenue policies and its growing control over Kottayam, Malabar and Wayanad. He got support from groups including the Kurichiya tribal community. Pazhassi Raja was killed in a British operation near Mavila Todu in Wayanad on 30 November 1805. The Cotiote War was one of the longest sustained armed resistances to Company rule in the region. Also read: India Independence Day 2026: 7 books that capture the pain of Partition Velu Thampi Dalawa: The official who preferred death to surrender One of the major early anti-colonial administrators, Velayudhan Chempakaraman Thampi, better known as Velu Thampi Dalawa, was the Dewan, or Prime Minister, of Travancore. He led the 1808–09 revolt against British interference in Travancore, including opposition to the growing powers exercised by the British Resident, Colonel Colin Macaulay, under what was known as the ‘subsidiary alliance’. He issued the famous Kundara Proclamation on 11 January 1809, calling on the people to resist British rule. After his forces suffered defeats, Velu Thampi was cornered at Mannadi. Rather than be captured, he took his own life in March 1809. His body was displayed by the British as a warning to others. Paliyath Achan, from the hereditary Cochin family of chief ministers, was a key ally of Velu Thampi. He led opposition to British influence in the Cochin state and took part in the revolt. He surrendered to the British and was exiled first to Madras and later to Benares, where he died in 1835. Vaikom Padmanabha Pillai, a military officer and Nair militia leader in Travancore, joined Velu Thampi's revolt and served as one of its military commanders. He was involved in attacks on British forces and was captured in 1809. He was subsequently publicly hanged by the British. https://www.wionews.com/videos/delhi-gears-up-for-80th-independence-day-with-red-fort-rehearsal-1786631413268/embed 20th-century nationalist, peasant, labour and political martyrs Besides these prominent leaders, hundreds of ordinary people laid down their lives in the struggle against British rule and the autocratic princely administrations. Peasant and labour movements in Malabar often combined opposition to colonial rule with resistance to the power of jenmis, or landlords. The Kayyur peasant struggle in present-day Kasaragod district was one such movement. The uprising of March 1941 grew out of tensions involving peasants, jenmi landlords and the British administration. Four young activists — Madathil Appu, Koyithattil Chirukandan, Podora Kunhambu Nair and Pallikkal Aboobacker — were sentenced to death and hanged at Kannur Central Jail on 29 March 1943 in connection with the killing of a police constable during the uprising. Also read: Independence Day 2026: Historical sites that reveal untold story of India’s freedom struggle Neyyattinkara firing martyrs On 31 August 1938, during the movement for responsible government in Travancore, demonstrators gathered at Neyyattinkara following the arrest of NK Padmanabha Pillai, the acting president of the Travancore State Congress. Travancore State Forces opened fire on the protesters near the bus stand. Those killed included Athazhamangalam Raghavan, popularly known as Veeraraghavan, Kalluvila Podiyan, Nadoorkolla Kuttan Pillai, Varuvilakom Muthan Pillai, Maruthur Vasudevan, Kanchampazhinji Kuttappan Nair and Varuvilakom Padmanabhan Pillai. A woman named Kali was also killed, bringing the reported death toll to eight. The INA's Penang group: Kerala members who faced the gallows Some Malayali freedom fighters were part of the network associated with Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose's Indian National Army (INA) and the Indian Independence League in Southeast Asia. Among the 20 members of the so-called Penang group who entered India in 1942, several were from Kerala. They were arrested and tried by the British on charges including conspiracy to wage war against the King and acting as enemy agents. The Kerala members who faced the death penalty included Vakkom Abdul Khader and Anandan. Khader and Anandan were among the four members of the group who were hanged at Madras Jail on 10 September 1943, along with Satyendra Chandra Bardhan of Tripura and Fauja Singh of Punjab. Peasant uprisings to the Wagon Tragedy: The deaths of common freedom fighters There were violent confrontations between the colonial authorities and several popular movements in the final decades of British rule in Kerala. Some of the anger of the people were directed at local rulers and landlords. Martyrs of these struggles included those who died at Karivellur, Morazha and elsewhere in Malabar. The Morazha protest of September 1940, for example, saw a clash between demonstrators and the police in which two police personnel and two young protesters were killed. Several participants from Kerala were also killed or injured during the Civil Disobedience and Quit India movements, including in police firings and other clashes in Travancore and Malabar. The Wagon Tragedy took place in November 1921 during the repression that followed the Malabar Rebellion. Prisoners arrested in connection with the uprising were being transported by train from Tirur towards prisons outside Malabar. Around 100 prisoners were packed into a closed goods wagon; 64 were found dead when the wagon was opened at Podanur, and six more later died, taking the death toll to 70. Most of those who died were Mappila Muslim prisoners. The incident became one of the most notorious episodes of colonial repression during the Malabar Rebellion.

India Independence Day 2026: Here is a tribute remembering Kerala's freedom martyrs, from Pazhassi Raja and Velu Thampi Dalawa to scores of common people who died in Kayyur, Neyyattinkara and elsewhere, as well as the victims of the infamous Wagon Tragedy.

India Independence Day 2026: Kerala's freedom martyrs — From Pazhassi Raja to Velu Thampi Dalawa and hundreds of commoners

Delhi High Court received a bomb threat on Friday (Aug 14) via email, just a day before the 80th Independence Day of India. Registrar General of the Delhi HC was reported to be in touch with the Delhi Police.&nbsp;&nbsp;Meanwhile, the Joint Secretary of the Delhi HC, Advocate Kunal, said to ANI, "The bomb threat appears to be fake... Everything is under control. Bomb squad and sniffer dogs are scanning the entire premises. There is no threat as of now..."

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">A bomb threat has been received at the Delhi High Court through email. Registrar General of the Delhi HC is in touch with the Delhi Police. Details awaited.&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://x.com/ANI/status/2088162896455045125?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 14, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Also, according to the Delhi Fire Service, bomb threat calls were received for five additional locations: Jamnagar House, Jhandewalan Flatted Factory Complex, MB Saket Office/DM Office, Terminal 3, IGI Airport and SDM Office, Delhi Cantt. Fire tenders have been dispatched to all these locations. However, nothing suspicious has been found during the investigation so far, ANI reported.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

A bomb threat has been received at the Delhi High Court through email.

Delhi High Court received a bomb threat on Friday (Aug 14) via email, just a day before the 80th Independence Day of India. Registrar General of the Delhi HC was reported to be in touch with the Delhi Police. Meanwhile, the Joint Secretary of the Delhi HC, Advocate Kunal, said to ANI, "The bomb threat appears to be fake... Everything is under control. Bomb squad and sniffer dogs are scanning the entire premises. There is no threat as of now..."

A bomb threat has been received at the Delhi High Court through email.

Delhi High Court receives bomb threat via email ahead of India's 80th Independence Day

Many leaders from what became India's Northeast contributed to the nation's freedom struggle. During British colonial rule, the areas were mainly part of Assam Province, while Manipur and Tripura were princely states. Parts of present-day Nagaland, Meghalaya, Mizoram and Arunachal Pradesh were administered differently. The seven states of the Northeast — Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland and Tripura — had tribal leaders, local kings or chieftains, military commanders, Congress leaders and reformists who resisted British colonial rule. Many led armed uprisings or participated in the Non-Cooperation, Civil Disobedience and Quit India movements led by Mahatma Gandhi and the Indian National Congress.<h2>Freedom fighters from Assam: From Maniram Dewan to Kushal Konwar</h2>Gopinath Bordoloi was a Gandhian Congress leader who joined the freedom movement in the 1920s. He participated in the Non-Cooperation and Quit India movements and worked to ensure that Assam remained part of India during Partition. He became the first Chief Minister of Assam and served from 1946 until his death in 1950.Maniram Dewan, or Maniram Dutta Baruah, was hanged by the British for his role in the 1857 uprising. He was one of the first Indians to establish tea gardens in Assam and became an important figure in the development of the tea industry. He and Piyali Barua were publicly hanged at Jorhat Central Jail on 26 February 1858.Kanaklata Barua was a teenage leader of the Mrityu Bahini during the 1942 Quit India Movement. She was shot dead at the age of 17 while leading an unarmed procession to hoist the national flag at Gohpur police station.Kushal Konwar, a prominent Quit India leader, was hanged by the British in 1943 after being convicted in connection with the alleged sabotage of a railway bridge. Bhogeswari Phukanani was another martyr of the Quit India Movement from Nagaon. She was shot during a non-violent protest in September 1942.Chandraprabha Saikiani was an activist, writer and social reformer involved in the freedom movement and women's causes. Bishnuprasad Rabha was a tribal revolutionary and cultural figure who participated in the Civil Disobedience Movement.Some of these leaders sacrificed their lives to make India free. There were many participants from the Mishing and Bodo communities in the Quit India Movement, as well as in other resistance movements.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-gears-up-for-80th-independence-day-celebrations-1786370419680/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-gears-up-for-80th-independence-day-celebrations-1786370419680/embed</a><h2>Manipur: From a crown prince who led the Anglo-Manipur War to tribal leaders</h2>Bir Tikendrajit Singh was a Crown Prince of Manipur and a military commander who led resistance in the Anglo-Manipur War of 1891 to protect Manipur's territorial integrity. He was publicly hanged by the British. General Thangal fought alongside Tikendrajit. Paona Brajabashi was a major in the Manipuri forces who fought valiantly in the Battle of Khongjom in 1891 against the British and chose death over surrender.Haipou Jadonang was a Rongmei Naga leader who founded the Heraka movement, a religious reform initiative that developed into an anti-British resistance movement. He was executed by the British in 1931. His follower, Rani Gaidinliu, was a spiritual and political leader born in present-day Manipur's Tamenglong district. Gaidinliu was a leader of the Heraka movement, having joined it at the age of around 13. She was arrested in 1932 at the age of 16 and imprisoned for nearly 14 years. Jawaharlal Nehru later gave her the title "Rani" in recognition of her courage.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/why-indian-pm-hoists-the-tricolour-on-independence-day-while-president-does-so-on-republic-day-1786595612617">Why Indian PM hoists the Tricolour on Independence Day while President does so on Republic Day</a><h2>Meghalaya: From a Khasi chief to members of the INA</h2>Several leaders from present-day Meghalaya participated in the freedom movement, including by joining or supporting Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose's Indian National Army (INA). U Tirot Sing Syiemlieh was a Khasi tribal chief of Nongkhlaw who led the Khasis in the Anglo-Khasi War of 1829–1833 against British road construction and attempts to extend colonial control. He was held by the British and died in captivity.U Kiang Nangbah was a Jaintia leader who led an uprising against British rule in the early 1860s. He was publicly hanged in 1862.There were many other Khasi and Jaintia resistance figures, including U Manick Daloi. Pa Togan Sangma was another prominent Garo leader who resisted British expansion in the Garo Hills.Also read: Independence Day 2026: 9 lesser-known facts about India’s freedom struggle &nbsp;<h2>Mizoram: From Mizo fighters from the hills to a female chieftain</h2>Pasaltha Khuangchera, also known as Khuangchera Ralte, was a prominent Mizo warrior who died resisting British forces in the Lushai Hills. He is remembered as a symbol of early armed resistance to British expansion. Lalnu Ropuiliani, better known as Ropuiliani, was a Mizo chieftainess who rallied other chiefs against British annexation and colonial control of their lands. Her resistance included refusing British demands for taxes, labour and other forms of tribute. She was eventually arrested and died in confinement in 1895.Leaders such as Lalsuthlaha, Ngura, Suakpuilala, Zakapa and Hnawncheuva also resisted British expeditions in the Lushai Hills during the late 19th century. These struggles were primarily efforts to defend Mizo autonomy and territory against colonial expansion.<h2>Nagaland and Naga areas: A struggle for identity and autonomy</h2>Naga resistance against the British often intertwined with Heraka, religious reform and local struggles for autonomy against colonial control.As mentioned, the efforts of Rani Gaidinliu and Haipou Jadonang spanned areas of present-day Manipur, Nagaland and Assam. Their resistance was strongly associated with Naga identity, the revival of traditional religious practices and opposition to British rule. The Heraka movement sought self-rule for the Nagas and challenged British authority in the region.<h2>Arunachal Pradesh: The warriors who fought the British</h2>Matmur Jamoh was an Adi warrior and village leader who led resistance against British expansion. In 1911, he and his followers killed British official Noel Williamson and others, an incident that contributed to the Anglo-Abor War of 1911–12. Jamoh was later sentenced to life imprisonment and sent to the Andaman Islands.Moje Riba was an important freedom fighter from the present-day Arunachal Pradesh region and became the first president of the INC in the area then known as the North-East Frontier Tract or NEFT. He participated in the freedom movement, was arrested for his activities, and became the first person in the region to hoist the national flag on 15 August 1947 at Dipa village.Taji Mideren was a Mishmi leader who resisted British expansion in the Lohit region. He organised members of the Mishmi community against British power. He was captured, sentenced to death, and hanged at Tezpur Jail on 29 January 1918.<h2>Tripura: The brothers who contributed to the freedom struggle</h2>Aziz Ahmed from present-day Tripura was active in regional resistance and nationalist activities against colonial rule. The brothers Umesh Lal Singh and Sachindra Lal Singh also contributed significantly to the freedom struggle. Sachindra Lal Singh, popularly known as Sachin-da, became involved in revolutionary activities while still a student and later played an important role in the political movement in Tripura. He was arrested and spent years in colonial prisons. After Independence, he became the first Chief Minister of Tripura, serving from 1963 to 1971.<h2>Freedom fighters from Northeast: The list is much longer</h2>Many more figures were involved in 19th-century tribal and local resistance against annexation and colonial control during what the British described as "expeditions". Some participated in or were influenced by the wider revolts associated with the 1857 uprising. In the 20th century, many tribal leaders focused on local sovereignty, cultural preservation and opposition to taxes or forced labour alongside broader anti-colonial struggles. Several reformist and Congress leaders were also closely linked to the freedom movement in Assam and other parts of the Northeast.The freedom struggle in the Northeast was therefore not a single, uniform movement. It included armed resistance by tribal and local leaders, opposition by rulers and chieftains, religious and cultural movements, revolutionary activities, and participation in Gandhi-led mass movements. Dozens of local chieftains, volunteers and community leaders also participated, many of them laying down their lives in resistance to British rule.

From Maniram Dewan to Rani Gaidinliu, from tribal chieftains to local princes, several leaders across present-day Northeast resisted British rule. They led armed uprisings, political movements and joined the larger national movements like Quit India.

Many leaders from what became India's Northeast contributed to the nation's freedom struggle. During British colonial rule, the areas were mainly part of Assam Province, while Manipur and Tripura were princely states. Parts of present-day Nagaland, Meghalaya, Mizoram and Arunachal Pradesh were administered differently. The seven states of the Northeast — Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland and Tripura — had tribal leaders, local kings or chieftains, military commanders, Congress leaders and reformists who resisted British colonial rule. Many led armed uprisings or participated in the Non-Cooperation, Civil Disobedience and Quit India movements led by Mahatma Gandhi and the Indian National Congress. Freedom fighters from Assam: From Maniram Dewan to Kushal Konwar Gopinath Bordoloi was a Gandhian Congress leader who joined the freedom movement in the 1920s. He participated in the Non-Cooperation and Quit India movements and worked to ensure that Assam remained part of India during Partition. He became the first Chief Minister of Assam and served from 1946 until his death in 1950. Maniram Dewan, or Maniram Dutta Baruah, was hanged by the British for his role in the 1857 uprising. He was one of the first Indians to establish tea gardens in Assam and became an important figure in the development of the tea industry. He and Piyali Barua were publicly hanged at Jorhat Central Jail on 26 February 1858. Kanaklata Barua was a teenage leader of the Mrityu Bahini during the 1942 Quit India Movement. She was shot dead at the age of 17 while leading an unarmed procession to hoist the national flag at Gohpur police station. Kushal Konwar, a prominent Quit India leader, was hanged by the British in 1943 after being convicted in connection with the alleged sabotage of a railway bridge. Bhogeswari Phukanani was another martyr of the Quit India Movement from Nagaon. She was shot during a non-violent protest in September 1942. Chandraprabha Saikiani was an activist, writer and social reformer involved in the freedom movement and women's causes. Bishnuprasad Rabha was a tribal revolutionary and cultural figure who participated in the Civil Disobedience Movement. Some of these leaders sacrificed their lives to make India free. There were many participants from the Mishing and Bodo communities in the Quit India Movement, as well as in other resistance movements. https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-gears-up-for-80th-independence-day-celebrations-1786370419680/embed Manipur: From a crown prince who led the Anglo-Manipur War to tribal leaders Bir Tikendrajit Singh was a Crown Prince of Manipur and a military commander who led resistance in the Anglo-Manipur War of 1891 to protect Manipur's territorial integrity. He was publicly hanged by the British. General Thangal fought alongside Tikendrajit. Paona Brajabashi was a major in the Manipuri forces who fought valiantly in the Battle of Khongjom in 1891 against the British and chose death over surrender. Haipou Jadonang was a Rongmei Naga leader who founded the Heraka movement, a religious reform initiative that developed into an anti-British resistance movement. He was executed by the British in 1931. His follower, Rani Gaidinliu, was a spiritual and political leader born in present-day Manipur's Tamenglong district. Gaidinliu was a leader of the Heraka movement, having joined it at the age of around 13. She was arrested in 1932 at the age of 16 and imprisoned for nearly 14 years. Jawaharlal Nehru later gave her the title "Rani" in recognition of her courage. Also read: Why Indian PM hoists the Tricolour on Independence Day while President does so on Republic Day Meghalaya: From a Khasi chief to members of the INA Several leaders from present-day Meghalaya participated in the freedom movement, including by joining or supporting Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose's Indian National Army (INA). U Tirot Sing Syiemlieh was a Khasi tribal chief of Nongkhlaw who led the Khasis in the Anglo-Khasi War of 1829–1833 against British road construction and attempts to extend colonial control. He was held by the British and died in captivity. U Kiang Nangbah was a Jaintia leader who led an uprising against British rule in the early 1860s. He was publicly hanged in 1862. There were many other Khasi and Jaintia resistance figures, including U Manick Daloi. Pa Togan Sangma was another prominent Garo leader who resisted British expansion in the Garo Hills. Also read: Independence Day 2026: 9 lesser-known facts about India’s freedom struggle Mizoram: From Mizo fighters from the hills to a female chieftain Pasaltha Khuangchera, also known as Khuangchera Ralte, was a prominent Mizo warrior who died resisting British forces in the Lushai Hills. He is remembered as a symbol of early armed resistance to British expansion. Lalnu Ropuiliani, better known as Ropuiliani, was a Mizo chieftainess who rallied other chiefs against British annexation and colonial control of their lands. Her resistance included refusing British demands for taxes, labour and other forms of tribute. She was eventually arrested and died in confinement in 1895. Leaders such as Lalsuthlaha, Ngura, Suakpuilala, Zakapa and Hnawncheuva also resisted British expeditions in the Lushai Hills during the late 19th century. These struggles were primarily efforts to defend Mizo autonomy and territory against colonial expansion. Nagaland and Naga areas: A struggle for identity and autonomy Naga resistance against the British often intertwined with Heraka, religious reform and local struggles for autonomy against colonial control. As mentioned, the efforts of Rani Gaidinliu and Haipou Jadonang spanned areas of present-day Manipur, Nagaland and Assam. Their resistance was strongly associated with Naga identity, the revival of traditional religious practices and opposition to British rule. The Heraka movement sought self-rule for the Nagas and challenged British authority in the region. Arunachal Pradesh: The warriors who fought the British Matmur Jamoh was an Adi warrior and village leader who led resistance against British expansion. In 1911, he and his followers killed British official Noel Williamson and others, an incident that contributed to the Anglo-Abor War of 1911–12. Jamoh was later sentenced to life imprisonment and sent to the Andaman Islands. Moje Riba was an important freedom fighter from the present-day Arunachal Pradesh region and became the first president of the INC in the area then known as the North-East Frontier Tract or NEFT. He participated in the freedom movement, was arrested for his activities, and became the first person in the region to hoist the national flag on 15 August 1947 at Dipa village. Taji Mideren was a Mishmi leader who resisted British expansion in the Lohit region. He organised members of the Mishmi community against British power. He was captured, sentenced to death, and hanged at Tezpur Jail on 29 January 1918. Tripura: The brothers who contributed to the freedom struggle Aziz Ahmed from present-day Tripura was active in regional resistance and nationalist activities against colonial rule. The brothers Umesh Lal Singh and Sachindra Lal Singh also contributed significantly to the freedom struggle. Sachindra Lal Singh, popularly known as Sachin-da, became involved in revolutionary activities while still a student and later played an important role in the political movement in Tripura. He was arrested and spent years in colonial prisons. After Independence, he became the first Chief Minister of Tripura, serving from 1963 to 1971. Freedom fighters from Northeast: The list is much longer Many more figures were involved in 19th-century tribal and local resistance against annexation and colonial control during what the British described as "expeditions". Some participated in or were influenced by the wider revolts associated with the 1857 uprising. In the 20th century, many tribal leaders focused on local sovereignty, cultural preservation and opposition to taxes or forced labour alongside broader anti-colonial struggles. Several reformist and Congress leaders were also closely linked to the freedom movement in Assam and other parts of the Northeast. The freedom struggle in the Northeast was therefore not a single, uniform movement. It included armed resistance by tribal and local leaders, opposition by rulers and chieftains, religious and cultural movements, revolutionary activities, and participation in Gandhi-led mass movements. Dozens of local chieftains, volunteers and community leaders also participated, many of them laying down their lives in resistance to British rule.

From Maniram Dewan to Rani Gaidinliu, from tribal chieftains to local princes, several leaders across present-day Northeast resisted British rule. They led armed uprisings, political movements, and joined the larger national movements like Quit India.

India@80: How leaders from the Northeast contributed to the freedom movement | Independence Day 2026 special

Chief Justice of India Surya Kant on Friday (Aug 14) questioned the Bar Council of India's intervention in the controversy involving students of the NALSAR University of Law, Hyderabad, saying the matter was essentially a dialogue between him and the students. Chief Justice of India Surya Kant expressed strong displeasure over the Bar Council of India's intervention in the NALSAR University of Law controversy, questioning the decision to block enrolment of the institution's 2026 graduates as advocates.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/nalsar-graduates-spared-bci-withdraws-controversial-bar-enrolment-order-hours-after-blocking-2026-graduates-over-cji-cockroach-row-1786672064793">NALSAR graduates spared? BCI withdraws controversial bar enrolment order hours after blocking 2026 graduates over CJI 'cockroach' row</a>A Supreme Court bench led by the CJI has also sought a response from the BCI on the circulars issued in connection with the row and directed that no punitive action be taken against NALSAR students or faculty while the matter is being considered.This comes after the Bar Council of India initially directed State Bar Councils not to enrol graduates from NALSAR's 2026 batch as advocates. The action followed a campaign by students opposing the proposed participation of Justice Kant as chief guest at the university's convocation over his remarks referring to certain unemployed youth as 'cockroaches'.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/smuggling-disguised-as-trade-us-claims-india-part-of-40-nation-shadow-network-helping-china-evade-tariffs-1786679286732">'Smuggling disguised as trade': US claims India part of 40-nation 'shadow network' helping China evade tariffs</a><h2>'Who are they to interfere?'</h2>Reacting to the BCI's intervention, Justice Kant questioned why the legal regulator had stepped into what he viewed as an interaction between him and the students. "It's a dialogue between me and students; who are they (BCI) to interfere," said the CJI.The CJI said that if students want to protest lawfully, the BCI has no business interfering. The Court has agreed to hear a plea on the matter brought by Senior Advocate K. Parameshwar. “BCI has nothing do with this. We are with you. Students have written a letter to me. It's a dialogue between students and me. Who are they to unnecessarily issue a circular?"&nbsp; "When I was in college, I was actively involved in student activities. Sometimes, even if they are saying the wrong thing, if they are lawfully raising their voice, it must be allowed”, the CJI said.&nbsp;

The NALSAR controversy has now reached the CJI himself, with Justice Surya Kant questioning why the Bar Council of India intervened in the dispute involving students and his proposed appearance at the university's convocation.

Chief Justice of India Surya Kant on Friday (Aug 14) questioned the Bar Council of India's intervention in the controversy involving students of the NALSAR University of Law, Hyderabad, saying the matter was essentially a dialogue between him and the students. Chief Justice of India Surya Kant expressed strong displeasure over the Bar Council of India's intervention in the NALSAR University of Law controversy, questioning the decision to block enrolment of the institution's 2026 graduates as advocates. Also read | NALSAR graduates spared? BCI withdraws controversial bar enrolment order hours after blocking 2026 graduates over CJI 'cockroach' row A Supreme Court bench led by the CJI has also sought a response from the BCI on the circulars issued in connection with the row and directed that no punitive action be taken against NALSAR students or faculty while the matter is being considered. This comes after the Bar Council of India initially directed State Bar Councils not to enrol graduates from NALSAR's 2026 batch as advocates. The action followed a campaign by students opposing the proposed participation of Justice Kant as chief guest at the university's convocation over his remarks referring to certain unemployed youth as 'cockroaches'. Also read | 'Smuggling disguised as trade': US claims India part of 40-nation 'shadow network' helping China evade tariffs 'Who are they to interfere?' Reacting to the BCI's intervention, Justice Kant questioned why the legal regulator had stepped into what he viewed as an interaction between him and the students. "It's a dialogue between me and students; who are they (BCI) to interfere," said the CJI. The CJI said that if students want to protest lawfully, the BCI has no business interfering. The Court has agreed to hear a plea on the matter brought by Senior Advocate K. Parameshwar. “BCI has nothing do with this. We are with you. Students have written a letter to me. It's a dialogue between students and me. Who are they to unnecessarily issue a circular?" "When I was in college, I was actively involved in student activities. Sometimes, even if they are saying the wrong thing, if they are lawfully raising their voice, it must be allowed”, the CJI said.

The NALSAR controversy has now reached the CJI himself, with Justice Surya Kant questioning why the Bar Council of India intervened in the dispute involving students and his proposed appearance at the university's convocation.

'Who are BCI to interfere?': CJI Surya Kant breaks silence on NALSAR convocation row; SC demands response on why punitive action was ordered

India and Bangladesh are discussing new dates for Prime Minister Tarique Rahman’s first official visit to New Delhi, with one window around 21 August and another in the first week of September under active consideration, people in the know of the developments have said.The invitation was first extended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during a telephone conversation after Rahman’s February election victory. New Delhi later renewed the offer in Rahman’s capacity as BIMSTEC chair, inviting him to attend the BRICS Summit in Delhi in September.&nbsp;No final dates have been locked in so far. Officials from the two countries are looking at domestic political calendars and the need for substantive outcomes from Rahman's India visit. The MEA has maintained that the invitation remains open and that India values a stable, productive partnership with Bangladesh.&nbsp;This week has seen intense diplomatic activity aimed at stabilising relations. On 10 August, India’s High Commissioner to Bangladesh, Dinesh Trivedi, called on Prime Minister Rahman and separately met the home minister in Dhaka. Concurrently, the chief of India’s Research and Analysis Wing, Parag Jain, was in the Bangladeshi capital for consultations. The following day, High Commissioner Trivedi returned to Delhi and briefed PM Modi. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) publicly restated the invitation for Rahman to participate in the BRICS summit.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/shortcuts-will-cut-you-short-pm-modi-urges-youth-to-look-beyond-social-media-reels-and-read-autobiographies-1786512120120">‘Shortcuts will cut you short’: PM Modi urges youth to look beyond social media reels and read autobiographies</a>Relations between the two neighbours have seen a focus on resetting since a new government took charge in Bangladesh earlier this year. Indian High Commissioner to Bangladesh Trivedi earlier this month also met the country's Power, Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Iqbal Hassan Mahmood to discuss ways of strengthening bilateral cooperation in the power and energy sectors. During the meeting, Dhaka sought more diesel from India, Bangladeshi media reports said.The flurry of contacts comes against a backdrop of areas of friction as well. Dhaka has expressed "outrage" over the continued presence in India of former prime minister Sheikh Hasina and a virtual press conference she held on 5 August. In a strongly worded statement, the Bangladesh government condemned the event and the platform provided to Hasina. The MEA responded by distancing itself from the remarks made during the press conference, stating that India did not endorse the comments.

No final dates have been locked in so far. Officials from the two countries are looking at domestic political calendars and the need for substantive outcomes from Rahman's India visit. 

India and Bangladesh are discussing new dates for Prime Minister Tarique Rahman’s first official visit to New Delhi, with one window around 21 August and another in the first week of September under active consideration, people in the know of the developments have said. The invitation was first extended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during a telephone conversation after Rahman’s February election victory. New Delhi later renewed the offer in Rahman’s capacity as BIMSTEC chair, inviting him to attend the BRICS Summit in Delhi in September. No final dates have been locked in so far. Officials from the two countries are looking at domestic political calendars and the need for substantive outcomes from Rahman's India visit. The MEA has maintained that the invitation remains open and that India values a stable, productive partnership with Bangladesh. This week has seen intense diplomatic activity aimed at stabilising relations. On 10 August, India’s High Commissioner to Bangladesh, Dinesh Trivedi, called on Prime Minister Rahman and separately met the home minister in Dhaka. Concurrently, the chief of India’s Research and Analysis Wing, Parag Jain, was in the Bangladeshi capital for consultations. The following day, High Commissioner Trivedi returned to Delhi and briefed PM Modi. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) publicly restated the invitation for Rahman to participate in the BRICS summit. Also read | ‘Shortcuts will cut you short’: PM Modi urges youth to look beyond social media reels and read autobiographies Relations between the two neighbours have seen a focus on resetting since a new government took charge in Bangladesh earlier this year. Indian High Commissioner to Bangladesh Trivedi earlier this month also met the country's Power, Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Iqbal Hassan Mahmood to discuss ways of strengthening bilateral cooperation in the power and energy sectors. During the meeting, Dhaka sought more diesel from India, Bangladeshi media reports said. The flurry of contacts comes against a backdrop of areas of friction as well. Dhaka has expressed "outrage" over the continued presence in India of former prime minister Sheikh Hasina and a virtual press conference she held on 5 August. In a strongly worded statement, the Bangladesh government condemned the event and the platform provided to Hasina. The MEA responded by distancing itself from the remarks made during the press conference, stating that India did not endorse the comments.

No final dates have been locked in so far. Officials from the two countries are looking at domestic political calendars and the need for substantive outcomes from Rahman's India visit.&nbsp;

India and Bangladesh explore fresh dates for PM Rahman’s Delhi visit

A farewell video of Rudra Gaurav Shresth, India's outgoing Ambassador to Iran, has gone viral on social media after he delivered his final message in Farsi from Tehran. Shresth thanked the people and colleagues who were part of his posting during his three years of tenure in the country and spoke about the memories he would take with him. As part of his farewell, a traditional Iranian custom involving water was performed. Looking ahead, his next posting will take him to Türkiye, where he is set to serve as India's ambassador in Ankara. In the video, Shresth reflected on his time in Iran and expressed gratitude to those who had supported him during his tenure. “Today, my mission in Iran has come to an end. I would like to thank all my friends and colleagues who were with me during this time. Iran is truly a land of beauty, culture, manners and hospitality,” Shresth said in Farsi. “This land and its people have always had a special place in my memories and in my heart. I look forward to seeing you again. Goodbye,” he added.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">India&#39;s outgoing ambassador Rudra Gaurav Shresth bids farewell to Tehran. Thanks Iran for &quot;Mehman-Nawazi&quot;. Iranian tradition, water is thrown behind departing traveller, symbolising a safe travels <a href="https://t.co/t5xSWQ6tuq">pic.twitter.com/t5xSWQ6tuq</a>&mdash; Yeshi Seli (@YeshiSeli) <a href="https://x.com/YeshiSeli/status/2086968204115804416?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 11, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/google-searches-for-eyes-hurt-see-shark-spike-after-solar-eclipse-1786624604678">Google searches for 'eyes hurt' see shark spike after solar eclipse - 'I think I'm going blind'</a><h3>Iranian tradition</h3>During his departure, water was thrown behind him in keeping with the Iranian tradition, a gesture meant to wish the departing person a safe journey and express hope for their eventual return. Shresth's transfer comes at a time when India continues to navigate its long-standing relationship with Iran alongside its strategic ties with Israel and the United States. This balancing act has grown more delicate following the February 28 US-Israel strikes and the broader conflict in West Asia. India expressed being "deeply concerned," calling for restraint, an end to escalation, and the protection of civilians, while stopping short of condemning the strikes. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri signed the sympathy book at the Iranian Embassy in New Delhi. The development followed after the Modi government faced criticism over its silence on the death of Khamenei for nearly a week.

Rudra Gaurav Shresth's transfer comes at a time when India continues to navigate its long-standing relationship with Iran alongside its strategic ties with Israel and the United States. 

A farewell video of Rudra Gaurav Shresth, India's outgoing Ambassador to Iran, has gone viral on social media after he delivered his final message in Farsi from Tehran. Shresth thanked the people and colleagues who were part of his posting during his three years of tenure in the country and spoke about the memories he would take with him. As part of his farewell, a traditional Iranian custom involving water was performed. Looking ahead, his next posting will take him to Türkiye, where he is set to serve as India's ambassador in Ankara. In the video, Shresth reflected on his time in Iran and expressed gratitude to those who had supported him during his tenure. “Today, my mission in Iran has come to an end. I would like to thank all my friends and colleagues who were with me during this time. Iran is truly a land of beauty, culture, manners and hospitality,” Shresth said in Farsi. “This land and its people have always had a special place in my memories and in my heart. I look forward to seeing you again. Goodbye,” he added.

Rudra Gaurav Shresth's transfer comes at a time when India continues to navigate its long-standing relationship with Iran alongside its strategic ties with Israel and the United States.&nbsp;

India's ambassador to Iran Rudra Gaurav Shresth delivers farewell in Farsi: Emotional video goes viral

The United States has placed India among more than 40 countries it says are part of a global "Shadow Transshipment Network" being used to move China-linked goods into the American market while avoiding higher tariffs imposed on Chinese imports.The claim comes from a new report titled <a href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/The-Great-Transshipment-Scam.pdf">The Great Transshipment Scam</a>, which examines how Chinese goods are allegedly being rerouted through third countries before reaching the US. India is listed in the report's top tier of countries considered to have significant exposure to China-linked transshipment.The report does not, however, say that India, as a government, is deliberately helping China evade tariffs. Instead, it says the risk is embedded within legitimate trade flows and points to India as one of several major trading and manufacturing hubs through which such goods may pass.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-s-trade-adviser-peter-navarro-slams-indians-claim-they-firebombed-him-online-over-brahmins-profiteering-remark-1786498920422">Trump's trade adviser Peter Navarro slams Indians, claims they ‘firebombed’ him online over ‘Brahmins profiteering’ remark | WATCH</a><h2>Why is India on the US list?</h2>The report says China adapted to the tariffs imposed by US President Donald Trump during his first term in 2018 by increasingly routing goods through countries with lower tariff exposure.According to the report, Chinese goods can undergo limited processing, repackaging, relabelling, or documentation changes in a third country before being shipped to the US. Such practices can create the appearance that the goods originated somewhere other than China.It describes this as "smuggling disguised as trade - fraud cloaked in paperwork" and says the system has grown into a global network.India is grouped alongside Canada, the European Union, Israel, Japan, Mexico, South Korea, and Taiwan in Tier 1, described as "Diversified Scale Leaders". The report says these economies have large volumes of China-linked trade and major export platforms, meaning transshipment risks can exist alongside legitimate commerce.<h2>$67 billion passed through India, Mexico, and Vietnam: US</h2>One of the report's key findings comes from the US Commerce Department's Office of Trade and Economic Analysis. Using transaction-level customs data, the analysis estimates that around $67 billion worth of US-bound goods were transshipped from China through Mexico, India, and Vietnam in 2025.The report estimates that this resulted in around $28 billion in lost US tariff revenue. It stresses that this narrower estimate was based on strict transaction matching and therefore provides only one measure of the wider problem."OTEA estimates that approximately $67 billion in U.S.-bound goods were transshipped from China through the top hubs—Mexico, India, and Vietnam—in 2025, producing an estimated $28 billion in lost tariff revenue."The report says the wider network now spans more than 40 "lower-tariff jurisdictions", with China-linked goods moving through production hubs, logistics centres, free zones and re-export platforms.<h2>Pune, Gujarat and Chennai: India's "ugly sister"?</h2>The report uses India's Pune-Gujarat-Chennai production belt as one of its "ugly sister" examples. "These are not sister cities in the cultural sense. They are the “ugly sisters” of modern zero-sum global trade, paired not by civic partnership, but by the logic of American jobs lost to unfair trade," reads the report.It identifies the corridor as a major route for pumps and compressors, which fall under HS codes 8413 and 8414. The concern is that China-linked goods moving through this Indian manufacturing network could ultimately compete with US producers in Cincinnati, Dayton and Columbus, putting pressure on American orders, factory utilisation, and jobs. The report stresses that these are not literal sister-city relationships, but product-to-industry comparisons showing how trade diversion in one country can affect manufacturing communities in another.<h2>US plans AI-powered crackdown</h2>Washington says it is turning to artificial intelligence to detect such activity. The report describes an "AI-enabled Detective Border" that would examine shipping routes, declared origins, components and production capacity to identify suspicious patterns.It says the system is intended to catch cases where "the paperwork changed faster than the product did" and identify false-origin claims and unusual routing patterns.The report also warns that the scale of tariff evasion could be far larger than the most conservative estimates, putting renewed pressure on countries including India that have become important links in global supply chains.

A US report has listed India among 40+ countries exposed to a China-linked transshipment network allegedly used to bypass higher US tariffs on Chinese goods.

The United States has placed India among more than 40 countries it says are part of a global "Shadow Transshipment Network" being used to move China-linked goods into the American market while avoiding higher tariffs imposed on Chinese imports. The claim comes from a new report titled The Great Transshipment Scam, which examines how Chinese goods are allegedly being rerouted through third countries before reaching the US. India is listed in the report's top tier of countries considered to have significant exposure to China-linked transshipment. The report does not, however, say that India, as a government, is deliberately helping China evade tariffs. Instead, it says the risk is embedded within legitimate trade flows and points to India as one of several major trading and manufacturing hubs through which such goods may pass. Also read | Trump's trade adviser Peter Navarro slams Indians, claims they ‘firebombed’ him online over ‘Brahmins profiteering’ remark | WATCH Why is India on the US list? The report says China adapted to the tariffs imposed by US President Donald Trump during his first term in 2018 by increasingly routing goods through countries with lower tariff exposure. According to the report, Chinese goods can undergo limited processing, repackaging, relabelling, or documentation changes in a third country before being shipped to the US. Such practices can create the appearance that the goods originated somewhere other than China. It describes this as "smuggling disguised as trade - fraud cloaked in paperwork" and says the system has grown into a global network. India is grouped alongside Canada, the European Union, Israel, Japan, Mexico, South Korea, and Taiwan in Tier 1, described as "Diversified Scale Leaders". The report says these economies have large volumes of China-linked trade and major export platforms, meaning transshipment risks can exist alongside legitimate commerce. $67 billion passed through India, Mexico, and Vietnam: US One of the report's key findings comes from the US Commerce Department's Office of Trade and Economic Analysis. Using transaction-level customs data, the analysis estimates that around $67 billion worth of US-bound goods were transshipped from China through Mexico, India, and Vietnam in 2025. The report estimates that this resulted in around $28 billion in lost US tariff revenue. It stresses that this narrower estimate was based on strict transaction matching and therefore provides only one measure of the wider problem. "OTEA estimates that approximately $67 billion in U.S.-bound goods were transshipped from China through the top hubs—Mexico, India, and Vietnam—in 2025, producing an estimated $28 billion in lost tariff revenue." The report says the wider network now spans more than 40 "lower-tariff jurisdictions", with China-linked goods moving through production hubs, logistics centres, free zones and re-export platforms. Pune, Gujarat and Chennai: India's "ugly sister"? The report uses India's Pune-Gujarat-Chennai production belt as one of its "ugly sister" examples. "These are not sister cities in the cultural sense. They are the “ugly sisters” of modern zero-sum global trade, paired not by civic partnership, but by the logic of American jobs lost to unfair trade," reads the report. It identifies the corridor as a major route for pumps and compressors, which fall under HS codes 8413 and 8414. The concern is that China-linked goods moving through this Indian manufacturing network could ultimately compete with US producers in Cincinnati, Dayton and Columbus, putting pressure on American orders, factory utilisation, and jobs. The report stresses that these are not literal sister-city relationships, but product-to-industry comparisons showing how trade diversion in one country can affect manufacturing communities in another. US plans AI-powered crackdown Washington says it is turning to artificial intelligence to detect such activity. The report describes an "AI-enabled Detective Border" that would examine shipping routes, declared origins, components and production capacity to identify suspicious patterns. It says the system is intended to catch cases where "the paperwork changed faster than the product did" and identify false-origin claims and unusual routing patterns. The report also warns that the scale of tariff evasion could be far larger than the most conservative estimates, putting renewed pressure on countries including India that have become important links in global supply chains.

A new US report has put India among more than 40 countries exposed to a global "shadow transshipment network" involving China-linked goods. But does the report accuse India of helping China evade tariffs? Here's what it actually says.

'Smuggling disguised as trade': US claims India part of 40-nation 'shadow network' helping China evade tariffs

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) IT Cell chief Amit Malviya on Friday (Aug 14) launched a fresh attack on Congress MP and Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi and party leader Sandeep Dikshit over their remarks during a recent Congress event, calling them “far more disturbing” than a mere “locker-room conversation”. The BJP leader’s remarks came after Gandhi and Dikshit aimed at Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s foreign policy during the Rachnatmak Congress national convention.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/air-india-pilot-tests-positive-for-marijuana-again-can-a-pilot-fly-after-testing-positive-for-drugs-india-us-and-uk-rules-explained-1786525753858">Air India pilot tests positive for Marijuana again: Can a pilot fly after testing positive for drugs? India, US and UK rules explained</a>&nbsp;During the event, Gandhi hugged Dikshit while criticising Modi’s gestures towards international dignitaries. Dikshit then quipped, “Meloni samajh ke toh nahi pakda tha? (You weren’t hugging me thinking I was Meloni?)”, referring to Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pakistan-s-shehbaz-sharif-warns-india-over-indus-waters-treaty-brings-up-operation-sindoor-ahead-of-80th-independence-day-1786675429889">Pakistan’s Shehbaz Sharif warns India over Indus Waters Treaty, brings up Operation Sindoor ahead of 80th Independence Day</a>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Rahul Gandhi and Sandeep Dikshit’s remarks reveal something far more disturbing than a mere “locker-room conversation.” Let us not sanitise this perversion with euphemisms. The crassness lies precisely in the way women in public life are reduced to objects of gratification…&mdash; Amit Malviya (@amitmalviya) <a href="https://x.com/amitmalviya/status/2087985542499913994?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 13, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>What Amit Malviya said</h2>Reacting to the exchange, Malviya said in a post on X that the remarks by Gandhi and Dikshit “reveal something far more disturbing than a mere ‘locker-room conversation’”. He alleged that the exchange reflected an attitude in which women in public life are “reduced to objects of gratification”, rather than being viewed as professionals, leaders and individuals deserving dignity.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-s-80th-independence-day-from-1947-to-2026-how-the-country-s-map-changed-over-80-years-1786422165717">India’s 80th Independence Day: From 1947 to 2026 - How the country's map changed over 80 years</a>&nbsp;“Let us not sanitise this perversion with euphemisms,” Malviya wrote, adding that the issue was not about being politically incorrect but about “basic decency”.&nbsp;The BJP leader’s remarks add to the ongoing political criticism surrounding Gandhi’s comments on Modi’s foreign policy and the Congress leaders’ exchange at the convention. &nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/assam-floods-over-1-6-lakh-affected-as-death-toll-mounts-to-95-know-updates-here-1785984761991">Assam floods: Over 1.6 lakh affected as death toll mounts to 95. Know updates here</a>

BJP’s Amit Malviya criticised Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Sandeep Dikshit over a remark referencing Italian PM Giorgia Meloni, calling it a perversion that objectifies women rather than basic political banter.

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) IT Cell chief Amit Malviya on Friday (Aug 14) launched a fresh attack on Congress MP and Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi and party leader Sandeep Dikshit over their remarks during a recent Congress event, calling them “far more disturbing” than a mere “locker-room conversation”. The BJP leader’s remarks came after Gandhi and Dikshit aimed at Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s foreign policy during the Rachnatmak Congress national convention. Also read: Air India pilot tests positive for Marijuana again: Can a pilot fly after testing positive for drugs? India, US and UK rules explained During the event, Gandhi hugged Dikshit while criticising Modi’s gestures towards international dignitaries. Dikshit then quipped, “Meloni samajh ke toh nahi pakda tha? (You weren’t hugging me thinking I was Meloni?)”, referring to Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. Also read: Pakistan’s Shehbaz Sharif warns India over Indus Waters Treaty, brings up Operation Sindoor ahead of 80th Independence Day

BJP’s Amit Malviya criticised Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Sandeep Dikshit over a remark referencing Italian PM Giorgia Meloni, calling it a perversion that objectifies women rather than basic political banter.

‘This is about basic decency’: BJP sharpens attack on Rahul Gandhi, Sandeep Dikshit over ‘Meloni’ hug remark

The Uttar Pradesh Anti-Terrorist Squad (ATS) has arrested two youths in Karnataka for reportedly maintaining contact with Pakistan and ISIS. Maps were also recovered from one of the accused's rooms. The ATS received information from a central intelligence agency, following which the arrests were made on the outskirts of Uplaam village in Kalaburagi taluk.<h3>Both suspects worked at beef factory</h3>Both individuals were reportedly working at the 'Fair Exports' beef factory. The two arrested individuals, originally from Uttar Pradesh, have been identified as Mohammad Sameer and Salman. During the UP ATS raid, some maps were also recovered.&nbsp;&nbsp;The maps were found in the room where Sameer was residing. In addition, the Uttar Pradesh Anti-Terrorist Squad is currently interrogating both the accused, and police are questioning them at an undisclosed location in Kalaburagi.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pakistan-s-shehbaz-sharif-warns-india-over-indus-waters-treaty-brings-up-operation-sindoor-ahead-of-80th-independence-day-1786675429889">Pakistan’s Shehbaz Sharif warns India over Indus Waters Treaty, brings up Operation Sindoor ahead of 80th Independence Day</a> Police sources indicated that the suspects were allegedly in regular contact with Pakistan-based individuals and suspected extremist networks through social media platforms. They also confirmed that WhatsApp calls and Facebook were reportedly used for communication.&nbsp;(This is a developing story. More details are awaited)

Police sources indicated that the suspects were allegedly in regular contact with Pakistan-based individuals and suspected extremist networks through social media platforms using WhatsApp calls and Facebook.

The Uttar Pradesh Anti-Terrorist Squad (ATS) has arrested two youths in Karnataka for reportedly maintaining contact with Pakistan and ISIS. Maps were also recovered from one of the accused's rooms. The ATS received information from a central intelligence agency, following which the arrests were made on the outskirts of Uplaam village in Kalaburagi taluk. Both suspects worked at beef factory Both individuals were reportedly working at the 'Fair Exports' beef factory. The two arrested individuals, originally from Uttar Pradesh, have been identified as Mohammad Sameer and Salman. During the UP ATS raid, some maps were also recovered. The maps were found in the room where Sameer was residing. In addition, the Uttar Pradesh Anti-Terrorist Squad is currently interrogating both the accused, and police are questioning them at an undisclosed location in Kalaburagi. Also read: Pakistan’s Shehbaz Sharif warns India over Indus Waters Treaty, brings up Operation Sindoor ahead of 80th Independence Day Police sources indicated that the suspects were allegedly in regular contact with Pakistan-based individuals and suspected extremist networks through social media platforms. They also confirmed that WhatsApp calls and Facebook were reportedly used for communication. (This is a developing story. More details are awaited)

Police sources indicated that the suspects were allegedly in regular contact with Pakistan-based individuals and suspected extremist networks through social media platforms using WhatsApp calls and Facebook.

UP ATS arrests 2 youths in Karnataka over alleged Pakistan, ISIS links: More details inside

The Bar Council of India on Thursday (Aug 13) temporarily withdrew its order directing State Bar Councils to stop the enrollment of 2026 graduates of NALSAR University of Law, Hyderabad. Notably, the controversial directive was issued just hours earlier.The initial order, issued by BCI Chairman Manan Kumar Mishra, linked the move to an ongoing controversy at NALSAR over a student campaign opposing the proposed participation of Chief Justice of India Surya Kant at the university's convocation. The students had protested the CJI's presence at the convocation ceremony over his remarks referring to unemployed youth as cockroaches.The BCI later reversed the decision, saying graduates from the 2026 batch would be free to enrol with the State Bar Council of their choice.<h2>Why did the BCI change its decision?</h2>In its revised communication, the BCI said its members had unanimously concluded that the "vast majority" of NALSAR's 2026 graduates were innocent and had not intended to participate in what the Council described as a "move of disrespect".Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/strongly-reconsider-nalsar-students-oppose-reported-plan-to-invite-cji-surya-kant-at-convocation-ceremony-1786290339877">'Strongly reconsider': NALSAR students oppose reported plan to invite CJI Surya Kant at convocation ceremony</a>The Council said it had also received information from "some reliable sources" suggesting that a small number of teachers and outsiders may have influenced or "instigated" students. "No student shall be made to suffer without any fault on his part," the BCI said.The Council will now wait for an inquiry report from the NALSAR Vice-Chancellor before deciding whether any further action is required.<h2>What triggered the dispute?</h2>The controversy began after NALSAR students submitted a representation opposing Justice Kant's proposed appearance as chief guest at their convocation.The students cited his remarks during proceedings concerning alleged police excesses against NEET protesters in New Delhi.The BCI's original communication sought a detailed report from the university within three days. It also asked NALSAR to identify students who were principally involved in initiating, organising or coordinating the campaign, along with details of the representation and its signatories.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/family-killing-fantasies-17-year-old-indian-origin-teen-charged-with-murdering-mother-14-year-old-brother-in-us-shocking-chatgpt-angle-uncovered-1786600791700">'Family-killing fantasies': Indian origin teen charged with murdering mother, 14-year-old brother in US; Shocking ChatGPT angle uncovered</a><h2>BCI had raised concerns over students' conduct</h2>The initial order took a strong position on the campaign, saying the conduct of law students needed to be examined against the standards expected of people entering the legal profession.The BCI drew a distinction between legitimate expression and what it described as organised intimidation, coercion, personal vilification, disruption, obstruction or calls for a boycott against a constitutional functionary or institutional programme.It further argued that students showing disregard for the highest judicial office could become a liability to the legal profession.The Council also alleged that there was "groupism and dirty politics" among some academic staff and claimed some teachers had played an active role in misleading or influencing students. The BCI said it would take a final decision on August 19 after receiving the Vice-Chancellor's inquiry report.

The Bar Council of India has reversed a controversial order that briefly blocked NALSAR Hyderabad's 2026 graduates from enrolling with State Bar Councils. The U-turn came within hours of uproar over the directive. Here's what happened.

The Bar Council of India on Thursday (Aug 13) temporarily withdrew its order directing State Bar Councils to stop the enrollment of 2026 graduates of NALSAR University of Law, Hyderabad. Notably, the controversial directive was issued just hours earlier. The initial order, issued by BCI Chairman Manan Kumar Mishra, linked the move to an ongoing controversy at NALSAR over a student campaign opposing the proposed participation of Chief Justice of India Surya Kant at the university's convocation. The students had protested the CJI's presence at the convocation ceremony over his remarks referring to unemployed youth as cockroaches. The BCI later reversed the decision, saying graduates from the 2026 batch would be free to enrol with the State Bar Council of their choice. Why did the BCI change its decision? In its revised communication, the BCI said its members had unanimously concluded that the "vast majority" of NALSAR's 2026 graduates were innocent and had not intended to participate in what the Council described as a "move of disrespect". Also read | 'Strongly reconsider': NALSAR students oppose reported plan to invite CJI Surya Kant at convocation ceremony The Council said it had also received information from "some reliable sources" suggesting that a small number of teachers and outsiders may have influenced or "instigated" students. "No student shall be made to suffer without any fault on his part," the BCI said. The Council will now wait for an inquiry report from the NALSAR Vice-Chancellor before deciding whether any further action is required. What triggered the dispute? The controversy began after NALSAR students submitted a representation opposing Justice Kant's proposed appearance as chief guest at their convocation. The students cited his remarks during proceedings concerning alleged police excesses against NEET protesters in New Delhi. The BCI's original communication sought a detailed report from the university within three days. It also asked NALSAR to identify students who were principally involved in initiating, organising or coordinating the campaign, along with details of the representation and its signatories. Also read | 'Family-killing fantasies': Indian origin teen charged with murdering mother, 14-year-old brother in US; Shocking ChatGPT angle uncovered BCI had raised concerns over students' conduct The initial order took a strong position on the campaign, saying the conduct of law students needed to be examined against the standards expected of people entering the legal profession. The BCI drew a distinction between legitimate expression and what it described as organised intimidation, coercion, personal vilification, disruption, obstruction or calls for a boycott against a constitutional functionary or institutional programme. It further argued that students showing disregard for the highest judicial office could become a liability to the legal profession. The Council also alleged that there was "groupism and dirty politics" among some academic staff and claimed some teachers had played an active role in misleading or influencing students. The BCI said it would take a final decision on August 19 after receiving the Vice-Chancellor's inquiry report.

The Bar Council of India has reversed a controversial order that briefly blocked NALSAR Hyderabad's 2026 graduates from enrolling with State Bar Councils. The U-turn came within hours of uproar over the directive. Here's what happened.

NALSAR graduates spared? BCI withdraws controversial bar enrolment order hours after blocking 2026 graduates over CJI 'cockroach' row

Six workers have died, 14 others were injured, while two are missing as a rush of water and debris entered a section of an under-construction tunnel at the Tehri Hydro Development Corporation Limited (THDC) project on Thursday evening in Pipalkoti, Chamoli district.&nbsp;The State Disaster Management Authority said a total of 22 people were working at the project site when a sudden flow of water rushed inside.&nbsp;Of the 22 workers stranded in the tunnel, 14 were rescued, while search was underway for the two missing workers at the time of the filing of this report.The incident was reported around 7.05pm in the 2km-long tunnel where construction work was being carried out by Hindustan Construction Company (HCC).&nbsp;Rescue operations were launched immediately and teams from the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and other agencies were deployed at the site.&nbsp;It had been raining heavily in Chamoli district for the last few days. Strong currents due to rising water level in a river had swept away a bridge in the district's Niti Valley region on Monday.&nbsp;Earlier, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dami confirmed that emergency rescue operations are underway. In a post on the social media platform X, Pushkar Singh Dami said that teams from the National Disaster Response Force and Uttarakhand State Disaster Response Force have been dispatched to the location for clearing the debris.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">🚨 UTTARAKHAND | TUNNEL INCIDENT An incident was reported at an under-construction HCC tunnel between Peepalkoti and Birhi following water seepage. Rescue teams are at the site and according to initial reports around 10 workers have been brought out safely. Rescue operations… <a href="https://t.co/CSjXByEycv">pic.twitter.com/CSjXByEycv</a>&mdash; contentkikamii (@contentkikamii) <a href="https://x.com/contentkikamii/status/2087918334331511188?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 13, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zelensky-5-percent-patriot-interceptors-russia-strikes-odesa-port-1786625078210">'Sell us 5%’: Zelensky seeks Patriot interceptors after Russia strikes Odesa port</a>&nbsp;“Information has been received about debris and water entering the THDC tunnel located in Peepalkoti. Considering the seriousness of the incident, teams from <a href="https://x.com/NDRFHQ">@NDRFHQ</a> and <a href="https://x.com/uksdrf">@uksdrf</a> have been immediately dispatched to the site. Instructions have been issued to all relevant agencies, including the district administration, to carry out relief and rescue operations at a war footing. I myself am in constant contact with the officials and continuously gathering updates on the situation. Our topmost priority is to safely evacuate every person trapped inside the tunnel. I pray to God for the safe well-being of all,” wrote Pushkar Singh Dhami.&nbsp;

A section of an under-construction THDC tunnel collapsed in Pipalkoti, Chamoli, Uttarakhand, with 15 people feared trapped and 10 rescued as rescue operations continue.

Six workers have died, 14 others were injured, while two are missing as a rush of water and debris entered a section of an under-construction tunnel at the Tehri Hydro Development Corporation Limited (THDC) project on Thursday evening in Pipalkoti, Chamoli district. The State Disaster Management Authority said a total of 22 people were working at the project site when a sudden flow of water rushed inside. Of the 22 workers stranded in the tunnel, 14 were rescued, while search was underway for the two missing workers at the time of the filing of this report. The incident was reported around 7.05pm in the 2km-long tunnel where construction work was being carried out by Hindustan Construction Company (HCC). Rescue operations were launched immediately and teams from the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and other agencies were deployed at the site. It had been raining heavily in Chamoli district for the last few days. Strong currents due to rising water level in a river had swept away a bridge in the district's Niti Valley region on Monday. Earlier, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dami confirmed that emergency rescue operations are underway. In a post on the social media platform X, Pushkar Singh Dami said that teams from the National Disaster Response Force and Uttarakhand State Disaster Response Force have been dispatched to the location for clearing the debris.

A section of an under-construction THDC tunnel collapsed in Pipalkoti, Chamoli, Uttarakhand, with 15 people feared trapped and 10 rescued as rescue operations continue.

6 workers killed, 2 trapped as water, debris enter THDC tunnel in Uttarakhand’s Chamoli

The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has directed ride-hailing aggregators Uber, Ola and Rapido to immediately pull pre-ride tipping prompts from their apps. The directive, issued on August 11, follows concerns over prompts such as "Advance Tip" and "Choose an Add-on" that implied drivers might be more likely to accept a booking if a rider paid extra. The government says such nudges violate the Motor Vehicle Aggregator Guidelines, 2025, and has ordered platforms to bring their apps into compliance without delay.<h2>Why has the government acted now?</h2>The move follows months of complaints. Uber's advance-tip feature had triggered a backlash on social media, with users alleging they were being pushed to pay extra just to get rides accepted faster, prompting the Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) to issue Uber a notice over the practice. Consumer Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi had earlier called the practice "unethical and exploitative," and the CCPA went on to examine other platforms as well for similar patterns.This latest order builds on that scrutiny by invoking the aggregator guidelines directly. It states that no feature, prompt, message, add-on or payment option should be shown before a ride is completed if it creates the impression that paying extra could improve ride confirmation, driver acceptance, allocation, waiting time or service quality.<h2>Does advance tipping unfairly favour passengers willing to pay more?</h2>Accounts from drivers' unions suggested a real effect, riders who tipped in advance during busy hours often seemed to get picked up faster, though it wasn't clear whether the platform's algorithm or drivers themselves were responsible. Either way, those paying extra appeared to get better service, undermining the idea of a level playing field. By pushing tipping to strictly after the ride, the government aims to remove any speed or acceptance advantage tied to a passenger's willingness to pay more.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/thdc-tunnel-collapse-chamoli-15-feared-trapped-10-rescued-1786633418264">THDC tunnel collapses in Uttarakhand’s Chamoli, 15 feared trapped; 10 rescued</a><h2>How does this affect drivers and their earnings?</h2>The order doesn't ban tipping, only its use as a pre-ride inducement; voluntary tips remain allowed. Under the new framework, a tip is meant to be given only when a passenger is satisfied with the service, and can be offered voluntarily once the journey concludes.For drivers, this likely means reverting to tips as genuine, discretionary appreciation rather than a bidding tool baked into acceptance mechanics. It could shave off the extra earnings some drivers were seeing from advance tips during peak hours, but removes the industry-wide pressure and reputational backlash tied to being seen as extracting money upfront.<h2>Is advance tipping a dark pattern?</h2>The directive states that no tipping feature or mechanism can be misleading, manipulative, or otherwise in violation of the Consumer Protection Act, 2019. However, the framing from the ministry is open to interpretation as to whether it is a dark pattern or not. But it is illegal.&nbsp;CCPA had separately probed Uber and Ola last January over allegations of device-based fare differences, such as Android versus iPhone users being shown different prices, suggesting a pattern of regulatory attention to potentially manipulative platform design of ride-hailing apps.&nbsp;<h2>How will booking actually change for passengers?</h2>According to the Motor Vehicle Aggregator Guidelines, aggregators cannot offer a tipping option before a ride is completed, meaning passengers should no longer see tip prompts while booking, before the journey begins, or during the trip. Fare estimates, wait times and other charges will continue to be shown upfront as before; only the tipping option shifts to a strictly post-ride touchpoint, most likely appearing on the payment or rating screen after drop-off.Platforms have been told to review and update their apps immediately; MoRTH has placed the compliance burden on aggregators themselves rather than announcing a phased rollout. So there are scopes of changes on Ola, Uber and Rapido apps in the very near term.

The government has directed Uber, Ola and Rapido to remove pre-ride tipping prompts, saying they violate the Motor Vehicle Aggregator Guidelines, 2025.

The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has directed ride-hailing aggregators Uber, Ola and Rapido to immediately pull pre-ride tipping prompts from their apps. The directive, issued on August 11, follows concerns over prompts such as "Advance Tip" and "Choose an Add-on" that implied drivers might be more likely to accept a booking if a rider paid extra. The government says such nudges violate the Motor Vehicle Aggregator Guidelines, 2025, and has ordered platforms to bring their apps into compliance without delay. Why has the government acted now? The move follows months of complaints. Uber's advance-tip feature had triggered a backlash on social media, with users alleging they were being pushed to pay extra just to get rides accepted faster, prompting the Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) to issue Uber a notice over the practice. Consumer Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi had earlier called the practice "unethical and exploitative," and the CCPA went on to examine other platforms as well for similar patterns. This latest order builds on that scrutiny by invoking the aggregator guidelines directly. It states that no feature, prompt, message, add-on or payment option should be shown before a ride is completed if it creates the impression that paying extra could improve ride confirmation, driver acceptance, allocation, waiting time or service quality. Does advance tipping unfairly favour passengers willing to pay more? Accounts from drivers' unions suggested a real effect, riders who tipped in advance during busy hours often seemed to get picked up faster, though it wasn't clear whether the platform's algorithm or drivers themselves were responsible. Either way, those paying extra appeared to get better service, undermining the idea of a level playing field. By pushing tipping to strictly after the ride, the government aims to remove any speed or acceptance advantage tied to a passenger's willingness to pay more. Also Read: THDC tunnel collapses in Uttarakhand’s Chamoli, 15 feared trapped; 10 rescued How does this affect drivers and their earnings? The order doesn't ban tipping, only its use as a pre-ride inducement; voluntary tips remain allowed. Under the new framework, a tip is meant to be given only when a passenger is satisfied with the service, and can be offered voluntarily once the journey concludes. For drivers, this likely means reverting to tips as genuine, discretionary appreciation rather than a bidding tool baked into acceptance mechanics. It could shave off the extra earnings some drivers were seeing from advance tips during peak hours, but removes the industry-wide pressure and reputational backlash tied to being seen as extracting money upfront. Is advance tipping a dark pattern? The directive states that no tipping feature or mechanism can be misleading, manipulative, or otherwise in violation of the Consumer Protection Act, 2019. However, the framing from the ministry is open to interpretation as to whether it is a dark pattern or not. But it is illegal. CCPA had separately probed Uber and Ola last January over allegations of device-based fare differences, such as Android versus iPhone users being shown different prices, suggesting a pattern of regulatory attention to potentially manipulative platform design of ride-hailing apps. How will booking actually change for passengers? According to the Motor Vehicle Aggregator Guidelines, aggregators cannot offer a tipping option before a ride is completed, meaning passengers should no longer see tip prompts while booking, before the journey begins, or during the trip. Fare estimates, wait times and other charges will continue to be shown upfront as before; only the tipping option shifts to a strictly post-ride touchpoint, most likely appearing on the payment or rating screen after drop-off. Platforms have been told to review and update their apps immediately; MoRTH has placed the compliance burden on aggregators themselves rather than announcing a phased rollout. So there are scopes of changes on Ola, Uber and Rapido apps in the very near term.

The government has directed Uber, Ola and Rapido to remove pre-ride tipping prompts, saying they violate the Motor Vehicle Aggregator Guidelines, 2025.

No more ‘advance tips’: Government orders Uber, Ola and Rapido to remove pre-ride tipping

On Saturday (Aug 15) India will celebrate its 80th Independence Day, marking 79 years since the country gained independence from British rule. The theme for the celebration is “Yuva Shakti for Viksit Bharat@2047”. It also commemorates Vande Mataram, honouring the national song that inspired millions of Indians during the freedom struggle.&nbsp;Vande Mataram will be sung for the first time at this year's celebrations to mark 150 years of the national song. The event is expected to garner around 27,000 people that would include entrepreneurs and students.&nbsp;The freedom from British rule in 1947, nearly 200 years after it won the Battle of Plassey in 1757, was a result of the sacrifice given by thousands of freedom fighters like Mahatma Gandhi, Jawaharlal Nehru, Subhash Chandra Bose, BR Ambedkar, Bhagat Singh and Chandrashekhar Azad.&nbsp;But as we remember their sacrifice there are some freedom fighter that do not feature prominently during the celebrations. Here we try to refresh your memories by talking about their contribution.&nbsp;<h2>Veer Kunwar Singh: The 80-Year-Old Who Took Up Arms Against the British</h2>&nbsp;Babu Veer Kunwar Singh was nearly 80 when the uprising of 1857 reached Bihar. Instead of staying away from the battlefield, he chose to fight the British. &nbsp;&nbsp;Veer Kunwar Singh was a Rajput zamindar and military leader from Jagdishpur in present-day Bihar. He became one of the most important leaders of the 1857 uprising against British rule in Bihar.&nbsp;One of the most famous episodes associated with Kunwar Singh occurred during his retreat across the Ganga. According to historical accounts, he was wounded by a British bullet while crossing the river. The injury severely affected his arm, and accounts of his life say that he cut off his wounded arm and offered it to the Ganga.&nbsp;This episode has become one of the enduring symbols of his courage.&nbsp;<h2>Birsa Munda: The Tribal Leader Who Took On The British Raj</h2>&nbsp;In the late 19th century Birsa Munda also known as Dharti Aaba (Father of the Earth) appeared as a powerful leader of the Munda people of Jharkhand. His movement challenged British colonial rule as well as the exploitation of tribal communities by landlords, moneylenders and intermediaries.&nbsp;Birsa's movement translated into the “Great Rebellion” or “Great Tumult,” in the late 1890s. His followers challenged colonial authority and attacked symbols of the systems they believed were exploiting their communities. The rebellion spread through parts of the Chotanagpur region spreading across large parts of Jharkhand, parts of Bihar, Odisha, Chhattisgarh and West Bengal.&nbsp;Birsa was arrested by the British in 1900 and died in Ranchi Jail on 9 June 1900, aged only about 25.&nbsp;<h2>Matangini Hazra — The elderly woman who refused to retreat</h2> Matangini Hazra was a freedom fighter from Bengal who became one of the striking figures of the Quit India Movement.&nbsp;In 1942, at around 73 years old, she led a large procession of about 6,000 people, predominantly women, in Tamluk. &nbsp;She was shot by colonial police during the protest and died holding the Tricolour.&nbsp;She was popularly known as “Gandhi Buri”, or “Old Lady Gandhi,” reflecting her association with Gandhian politics.&nbsp;President Droupadi Murmu has specifically remembered her among India's women freedom fighters.<h2>Kanaklata Barua — The 17-year-old freedom fighter</h2>&nbsp;Kanaklata Barua was a y freedom fighter from Assam who participated in the Quit India Movement.&nbsp;On 20 September 1942, she joined a procession that was on its way to hoist the national flag at the Gohpur Police Station. When the procession reached closer with Barua in the forefront holding the tricolour shots were fired and she was killed at just 17 years of age.&nbsp;The Government of India has included her among freedom fighters being commemorated at the district level.&nbsp;<h2>Velu Nachiyar — The queen who fought the British</h2>&nbsp;Rani Velu Nachiyar of Sivaganga in Tamil Nadu was born in 1730 and was trained in martial skills from an early age. After British-backed forces attacked Sivaganga and her husband was killed, she organised resistance and eventually fought to regain her kingdom.She was one of the earliest Indian rulers to mount armed resistance against the East India Company.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Babu Veer Kunwar Singh, a Rajput zamindar, was nearly 80 when the uprising of 1857 reached Bihar. Instead of staying away from the battlefield, he chose to fight the British.  

On Saturday (Aug 15) India will celebrate its 80th Independence Day, marking 79 years since the country gained independence from British rule. The theme for the celebration is “Yuva Shakti for Viksit Bharat@2047”. It also commemorates Vande Mataram, honouring the national song that inspired millions of Indians during the freedom struggle. Vande Mataram will be sung for the first time at this year's celebrations to mark 150 years of the national song. The event is expected to garner around 27,000 people that would include entrepreneurs and students. The freedom from British rule in 1947, nearly 200 years after it won the Battle of Plassey in 1757, was a result of the sacrifice given by thousands of freedom fighters like Mahatma Gandhi, Jawaharlal Nehru, Subhash Chandra Bose, BR Ambedkar, Bhagat Singh and Chandrashekhar Azad. But as we remember their sacrifice there are some freedom fighter that do not feature prominently during the celebrations. Here we try to refresh your memories by talking about their contribution. Veer Kunwar Singh: The 80-Year-Old Who Took Up Arms Against the British Babu Veer Kunwar Singh was nearly 80 when the uprising of 1857 reached Bihar. Instead of staying away from the battlefield, he chose to fight the British. Veer Kunwar Singh was a Rajput zamindar and military leader from Jagdishpur in present-day Bihar. He became one of the most important leaders of the 1857 uprising against British rule in Bihar. One of the most famous episodes associated with Kunwar Singh occurred during his retreat across the Ganga. According to historical accounts, he was wounded by a British bullet while crossing the river. The injury severely affected his arm, and accounts of his life say that he cut off his wounded arm and offered it to the Ganga. This episode has become one of the enduring symbols of his courage. Birsa Munda: The Tribal Leader Who Took On The British Raj In the late 19th century Birsa Munda also known as Dharti Aaba (Father of the Earth) appeared as a powerful leader of the Munda people of Jharkhand. His movement challenged British colonial rule as well as the exploitation of tribal communities by landlords, moneylenders and intermediaries. Birsa's movement translated into the “Great Rebellion” or “Great Tumult,” in the late 1890s. His followers challenged colonial authority and attacked symbols of the systems they believed were exploiting their communities. The rebellion spread through parts of the Chotanagpur region spreading across large parts of Jharkhand, parts of Bihar, Odisha, Chhattisgarh and West Bengal. Birsa was arrested by the British in 1900 and died in Ranchi Jail on 9 June 1900, aged only about 25. Matangini Hazra — The elderly woman who refused to retreat Matangini Hazra was a freedom fighter from Bengal who became one of the striking figures of the Quit India Movement. In 1942, at around 73 years old, she led a large procession of about 6,000 people, predominantly women, in Tamluk. She was shot by colonial police during the protest and died holding the Tricolour. She was popularly known as “Gandhi Buri”, or “Old Lady Gandhi,” reflecting her association with Gandhian politics. President Droupadi Murmu has specifically remembered her among India's women freedom fighters. Kanaklata Barua — The 17-year-old freedom fighter Kanaklata Barua was a y freedom fighter from Assam who participated in the Quit India Movement. On 20 September 1942, she joined a procession that was on its way to hoist the national flag at the Gohpur Police Station. When the procession reached closer with Barua in the forefront holding the tricolour shots were fired and she was killed at just 17 years of age. The Government of India has included her among freedom fighters being commemorated at the district level. Velu Nachiyar — The queen who fought the British Rani Velu Nachiyar of Sivaganga in Tamil Nadu was born in 1730 and was trained in martial skills from an early age. After British-backed forces attacked Sivaganga and her husband was killed, she organised resistance and eventually fought to regain her kingdom. She was one of the earliest Indian rulers to mount armed resistance against the East India Company.

Babu Veer Kunwar Singh, a Rajput zamindar, was nearly 80 when the uprising of 1857 reached Bihar. Instead of staying away from the battlefield, he chose to fight the British. &nbsp;

80th Independence Day: 5 unsung freedom fighters you should know

By Shrey Upadhyaya&nbsp;The verdict tonight on Parliament’s Monsoon Session is blunt: it was a complete failure. And the blame lies on all our lawmakers. Not one side, mind you. All 25 days. 19 sittings. Just 12 out of 28 pending Bills passed.The Lok Sabha functioned at a mere 19%, while the Rajya Sabha was around 39%. That is an extraordinary amount of parliamentary time, resources, and money lost.Rahul Gandhi and the Opposition cannot claim victory simply by creating disruption. “We didn't let the government have its say” is not a valid reason to let down your voters.But the government also cannot claim that passing Bills quickly is proof of a successful Parliament. Some Bills were passed with very limited or no discussion. For instance, the MSME Development Amendment Bill took three minutes. Registration of Births and Deaths Amendment Bill took four minutes.Sure, there was a NEET paper leak discussion. But what after that?Is the confrontation between two of the tallest leaders from both sides going to decide what a country of 1.4 billion people sees every day?What about the remaining 541 MPs who have been elected to represent their constituencies?Whom should we look at to raise our issues? Whom should we vote for if nobody is willing to do the one job that they have inside Parliament?The answer, unfortunately, lies in what Bob Dylan once sang: “How many ears must one man have before he can hear people cry? How many deaths will it take till he knows that too many people have died? The answer, my friend, is blowin’ in the wind.

Parliament’s monsoon session saw low productivity, repeated disruptions and limited debate, raising questions over whether both government and Opposition failed lawmakers and voters.

By Shrey Upadhyaya The verdict tonight on Parliament’s Monsoon Session is blunt: it was a complete failure. And the blame lies on all our lawmakers. Not one side, mind you. All 25 days. 19 sittings. Just 12 out of 28 pending Bills passed. The Lok Sabha functioned at a mere 19%, while the Rajya Sabha was around 39%. That is an extraordinary amount of parliamentary time, resources, and money lost. Rahul Gandhi and the Opposition cannot claim victory simply by creating disruption. “We didn't let the government have its say” is not a valid reason to let down your voters. But the government also cannot claim that passing Bills quickly is proof of a successful Parliament. Some Bills were passed with very limited or no discussion. For instance, the MSME Development Amendment Bill took three minutes. Registration of Births and Deaths Amendment Bill took four minutes. Sure, there was a NEET paper leak discussion. But what after that? Is the confrontation between two of the tallest leaders from both sides going to decide what a country of 1.4 billion people sees every day? What about the remaining 541 MPs who have been elected to represent their constituencies? Whom should we look at to raise our issues? Whom should we vote for if nobody is willing to do the one job that they have inside Parliament? The answer, unfortunately, lies in what Bob Dylan once sang: “How many ears must one man have before he can hear people cry? How many deaths will it take till he knows that too many people have died? The answer, my friend, is blowin’ in the wind.

Parliament’s monsoon session saw low productivity, repeated disruptions and limited debate, raising questions over whether both government and Opposition failed lawmakers and voters.

The Verdict | Parliament monsoon session: Both government and Opposition failed

80 years after Indian Independence, two slogans still reverberate through the Indian streets and provide competing visions of Indian nationalism. One is a hymn that visualises the country as a mother, while the other is a battle cry that envisions the future. Both of them abundantly feature in the vocabulary of Indian politics and surface often in parliamentary debates. These words have outlived the movement which birthed them.&nbsp;<h2>A song from a novel&nbsp;</h2>"Vande Mataram" - "I bow to thee, Mother" did not begin as a slogan at all. It began as a passage of prose and verse inside a novel, Anandamath, by the Bengali writer Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay, but turned into a slogan for the movement. Set against the backdrop of the Sanyasi Rebellion of 1770, it is considered India's first Political novel. The broad contour of the novel is that a band of ascetic warriors fight against oppressive rulers. Inside the novel, a song is woven, sung by the ascetic rebels, composed of a hybrid of Sanskrit and Bengali. The song addressed the land as a mother, sorrowful and in need of her children's devotion.&nbsp;The song might have just remained a literary flourish if it were not for Rabindranath Tagore, who set "Vande Mataram" to music and sang it at a session of the Indian National Congress, giving it a public life far beyond the novel's pages. Then, in 1905, against the partition of Bengal, the song became an anthem of resistance that followed. The British banned the public rendition of it in some provinces. To sing Vande Mataram became in itself an act of defiance.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/thdc-tunnel-collapse-chamoli-15-feared-trapped-10-rescued-1786633418264">THDC tunnel collapses in Uttarakhand’s Chamoli, 15 feared trapped; 10 rescued</a><h2>An Urdu poet</h2>“Inquilab Zindabad” is Urdu for “Long Live the Revolution”, and is credited to the activist Hasrat Mohani, who coined it around 1921. Mohani had an unusual position, a devout Muslim and one of the early members of the Communist Party of India, and a fierce anti-colonial agitator, all at once. His slogan brought in the energy of the Russian Revolution and mixed with the anti-colonial mood sweeping India. He was a prominent figure of the Khilafat movement, which criticised the British policies against the Ottoman Empire. What makes Mohani unusual is that despite having a Muslim intellectual and political environment and being part of the Khilafat movement, he embraced communism, rejecting the partition and two-state solution.However, the slogan would have remained a footnote in Indian history if it were not for Bhagat Singh and Batukeshwar Dutt, who threw non-lethal bombs onto the floor of the Central Legislative Assembly in Delhi and stood their ground and shouted "Inquilab Zindabad" to be arrested. In Bhagat Singh's words, to make the deaf hear. They went on to shout the same slogan at the end of their life during execution in 1931. Cementing his and the slogan's legacy as uncompromising revolutionary sacrifice.&nbsp;<h2>The politics of slogans</h2>To understand Vande Mataram, one has to understand the social situation of the novel and the author. It was the genre-defining first political fiction of India. The song was a linguistic brilliance, with a deeply rhythmic, sonorous, and mantric quality. It evokes vivid imagery and personifies the nation. It borrows heavily from Hindu devotional tradition in the later stanzas. So much so that Rabindranath Tagore, its early champion, later expressed reservations about promoting the song's later stanzas,Historically, the narrative of the novel Anandamath is called flawed by many scholars. Set against a backdrop that casts Muslim rulers as antagonists, some of its passages carried a charge that unsettled Muslim leaders within the nationalist movement. Then comes the author's own position in the text: Bankim was an upper-caste, high-ranking civil servant, a Deputy Magistrate under the British Raj. He was a product of the English-educated Bengali elite. Bengal's peasantry was predominantly Muslim, while the landlords and colonial middlemen were largely Hindu, which shaped Bankim's narrative. The novel ends with a profound narrative shift: a realisation that India needs colonial rule, though it remains confusing whether the author himself believed it or was just trying to get the novel published.&nbsp;Compared to this, Singh and his contemporaries in the Hindustan Socialist Republican Association meant the phrase as something closer to a class rallying cry than a nationalist one. Their revolution was aimed not just at British rule but at a future social order, one influenced by socialist thought, secular by design, addressed to workers and peasants rather than to any single religious community.The difference is stark. One expresses devotion to the nation through the imagery of the motherland, while the other emerged as a call for revolutionary change and a new social order. One personifies the nation as a mother, while the other invokes revolution as a means of transforming society.&nbsp; &nbsp;

How Vande Mataram and Inquilab Zindabad emerged from different political traditions and came to represent competing ideas of Indian nationalism.

80 years after Indian Independence, two slogans still reverberate through the Indian streets and provide competing visions of Indian nationalism. One is a hymn that visualises the country as a mother, while the other is a battle cry that envisions the future. Both of them abundantly feature in the vocabulary of Indian politics and surface often in parliamentary debates. These words have outlived the movement which birthed them. A song from a novel "Vande Mataram" - "I bow to thee, Mother" did not begin as a slogan at all. It began as a passage of prose and verse inside a novel, Anandamath, by the Bengali writer Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay, but turned into a slogan for the movement. Set against the backdrop of the Sanyasi Rebellion of 1770, it is considered India's first Political novel. The broad contour of the novel is that a band of ascetic warriors fight against oppressive rulers. Inside the novel, a song is woven, sung by the ascetic rebels, composed of a hybrid of Sanskrit and Bengali. The song addressed the land as a mother, sorrowful and in need of her children's devotion. The song might have just remained a literary flourish if it were not for Rabindranath Tagore, who set "Vande Mataram" to music and sang it at a session of the Indian National Congress, giving it a public life far beyond the novel's pages. Then, in 1905, against the partition of Bengal, the song became an anthem of resistance that followed. The British banned the public rendition of it in some provinces. To sing Vande Mataram became in itself an act of defiance. Also Read: THDC tunnel collapses in Uttarakhand’s Chamoli, 15 feared trapped; 10 rescued An Urdu poet “Inquilab Zindabad” is Urdu for “Long Live the Revolution”, and is credited to the activist Hasrat Mohani, who coined it around 1921. Mohani had an unusual position, a devout Muslim and one of the early members of the Communist Party of India, and a fierce anti-colonial agitator, all at once. His slogan brought in the energy of the Russian Revolution and mixed with the anti-colonial mood sweeping India. He was a prominent figure of the Khilafat movement, which criticised the British policies against the Ottoman Empire. What makes Mohani unusual is that despite having a Muslim intellectual and political environment and being part of the Khilafat movement, he embraced communism, rejecting the partition and two-state solution. However, the slogan would have remained a footnote in Indian history if it were not for Bhagat Singh and Batukeshwar Dutt, who threw non-lethal bombs onto the floor of the Central Legislative Assembly in Delhi and stood their ground and shouted "Inquilab Zindabad" to be arrested. In Bhagat Singh's words, to make the deaf hear. They went on to shout the same slogan at the end of their life during execution in 1931. Cementing his and the slogan's legacy as uncompromising revolutionary sacrifice. The politics of slogans To understand Vande Mataram, one has to understand the social situation of the novel and the author. It was the genre-defining first political fiction of India. The song was a linguistic brilliance, with a deeply rhythmic, sonorous, and mantric quality. It evokes vivid imagery and personifies the nation. It borrows heavily from Hindu devotional tradition in the later stanzas. So much so that Rabindranath Tagore, its early champion, later expressed reservations about promoting the song's later stanzas, Historically, the narrative of the novel Anandamath is called flawed by many scholars. Set against a backdrop that casts Muslim rulers as antagonists, some of its passages carried a charge that unsettled Muslim leaders within the nationalist movement. Then comes the author's own position in the text: Bankim was an upper-caste, high-ranking civil servant, a Deputy Magistrate under the British Raj. He was a product of the English-educated Bengali elite. Bengal's peasantry was predominantly Muslim, while the landlords and colonial middlemen were largely Hindu, which shaped Bankim's narrative. The novel ends with a profound narrative shift: a realisation that India needs colonial rule, though it remains confusing whether the author himself believed it or was just trying to get the novel published. Compared to this, Singh and his contemporaries in the Hindustan Socialist Republican Association meant the phrase as something closer to a class rallying cry than a nationalist one. Their revolution was aimed not just at British rule but at a future social order, one influenced by socialist thought, secular by design, addressed to workers and peasants rather than to any single religious community. The difference is stark. One expresses devotion to the nation through the imagery of the motherland, while the other emerged as a call for revolutionary change and a new social order. One personifies the nation as a mother, while the other invokes revolution as a means of transforming society.

How Vande Mataram and Inquilab Zindabad emerged from different political traditions and came to represent competing ideas of Indian nationalism.

Vande Mataram and Inquilab Zindabad: Two slogans, two visions of Indian nationalism

In February 2024, the Parliamentary Standing Committee On Defence recommended that families of Agniveers dying in the line of duty should get the same benefits similar to that of regular military personnel. Currently, family members of Agniveers who die in the line of duty are not eligible for regular benefits like pension.&nbsp;Making the recommendation Parliamentary Standing Committee On Defence in its report said, "Considering the plight of family members/next of kin, the Committee desire after martyrdom of an Agniveer, the same benefits should be provided to their family members that are provided to the family of a regular soldier."&nbsp;The suggestion made by the Parliamentary Standing Committee On Defence is back in focus as the Defence Ministry is said to be considering giving families of martyred Agniveers pension or a government job.&nbsp;<h2>However, there is no final word on it yet. But let's understand why the recommendation was made.</h2>&nbsp;Firstly the Parliamentary Standing Committee On Defence argues that the Agniveer is performing military duties like other soldiers. It viewed the sacrifice as deserving comparable family protection.&nbsp;The panel saw a huge disparity post-death benefits available to the family of a regular soldier and that of an Agniveer, though both sacrificed their lives on duty.&nbsp;<h2>What benefits are currently available to the families of Agniveers who die in the line of duty?</h2>&nbsp;The family of an Agniveer who dies during the engagement period is entitled to a substantial package, but it is not the same as the package for a regular soldier, particularly because there is no family pension.&nbsp;The main benefits of an Indian Army Agniveer are: Life insurance of upto Rs 48 lakh, ex-gratia compensation which is Rs 44 lakh for death in the line of duty and Seva Nidhi or Agniveer Corpus - The accumulated corpus, including the Agniveer's contribution, Government's matching contribution and applicable interest.&nbsp;<h2>The important difference from a regular soldier</h2>&nbsp;A regular soldier who dies in qualifying circumstances can receive, among other things, Liberalised Family Pension, death gratuity, Army Group Insurance benefits and other service-linked benefits. For example, the Government's current description of Army battle-casualty benefits includes liberalised family pension equal to the deceased's last emoluments, DCRG, and Army Group Insurance. While Agniveer's family does not get that regular-soldier pension entitlement That is essentially why the Standing Committee proposed that families of Agniveers dying in the line of duty should get the same benefits similar to that of regular military personnel: the immediate compensation is substantial, but the family's long-term financial security is different because there is no liberalised family pension.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Parliamentary Standing Committee On Defence saw a huge disparity post-death benefits available to the family of a regular soldier and that of an Agniveer, though both sacrificed their lives on duty.

In February 2024, the Parliamentary Standing Committee On Defence recommended that families of Agniveers dying in the line of duty should get the same benefits similar to that of regular military personnel. Currently, family members of Agniveers who die in the line of duty are not eligible for regular benefits like pension. Making the recommendation Parliamentary Standing Committee On Defence in its report said, "Considering the plight of family members/next of kin, the Committee desire after martyrdom of an Agniveer, the same benefits should be provided to their family members that are provided to the family of a regular soldier." The suggestion made by the Parliamentary Standing Committee On Defence is back in focus as the Defence Ministry is said to be considering giving families of martyred Agniveers pension or a government job. However, there is no final word on it yet. But let's understand why the recommendation was made. Firstly the Parliamentary Standing Committee On Defence argues that the Agniveer is performing military duties like other soldiers. It viewed the sacrifice as deserving comparable family protection. The panel saw a huge disparity post-death benefits available to the family of a regular soldier and that of an Agniveer, though both sacrificed their lives on duty. What benefits are currently available to the families of Agniveers who die in the line of duty? The family of an Agniveer who dies during the engagement period is entitled to a substantial package, but it is not the same as the package for a regular soldier, particularly because there is no family pension. The main benefits of an Indian Army Agniveer are: Life insurance of upto Rs 48 lakh, ex-gratia compensation which is Rs 44 lakh for death in the line of duty and Seva Nidhi or Agniveer Corpus - The accumulated corpus, including the Agniveer's contribution, Government's matching contribution and applicable interest. The important difference from a regular soldier A regular soldier who dies in qualifying circumstances can receive, among other things, Liberalised Family Pension, death gratuity, Army Group Insurance benefits and other service-linked benefits. For example, the Government's current description of Army battle-casualty benefits includes liberalised family pension equal to the deceased's last emoluments, DCRG, and Army Group Insurance. While Agniveer's family does not get that regular-soldier pension entitlement That is essentially why the Standing Committee proposed that families of Agniveers dying in the line of duty should get the same benefits similar to that of regular military personnel: the immediate compensation is substantial, but the family's long-term financial security is different because there is no liberalised family pension.

The Parliamentary Standing Committee On Defence saw a huge disparity post-death benefits available to the family of a regular soldier and that of an Agniveer, though both sacrificed their lives on duty.

Families of Agniveers killed in action should get same benefits as regular soldiers? WION Explains

Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta on Thursday (Aug 13) inaugurated the newly constructed 2-Lane Slip Road Bridge connecting the Ghazipur Drain to the Hindon Canal. The project is expected to provide significant relief to lakhs of commuters from Kondli, Kalyanpuri, Ghazipur and adjoining areas by easing traffic congestion, reducing travel time and improving daily connectivity.&nbsp;The inauguration was attended by Delhi BJP President and Union Minister of State Shri Harsh Malhotra, Cabinet Minister Shri Parvesh Sahib Singh Ji, MLAs Shri Ravinder Negi Ji and Shri Ravikant Ji, District President Shri Vijender Dhama Ji, along with public representatives, senior officials, local residents and other dignitaries.&nbsp;Speaking on the occasion, the Chief Minister said that the Delhi Government is committed to strengthening the city's road infrastructure and enhancing connectivity to ensure smoother, faster and more convenient travel for citizens. She added that such infrastructure projects are aimed at improving the overall Ease of Living for every Delhiite.<h2>Promoting sustainable waste</h2>&nbsp;Earlier this month CM Rekha Gupta inaugurated 'Arpan', a donation centre for old clothes at Punjabi Bagh West Metro Station, marking a significant step towards promoting sustainable waste management and advancing a circular economy in the National Capital.&nbsp;The 'Arpan' initiative seeks to encourage citizens to donate their old, wearable clothes for reuse, recycling and upcycling, thereby reducing textile waste, conserving valuable resources and fostering responsible consumption. By extending the life cycle of clothing, the initiative aims to minimise waste sent to landfills while promoting environmentally sustainable practices across Delhi.&nbsp;Beyond its environmental impact, the initiative is also designed to generate sustainable livelihood opportunities for women through the collection, sorting and processing of donated clothes. This will help create a community-driven model that combines environmental responsibility with social and economic empowerment.

Speaking on the occasion, the Chief Minister said that the Delhi Government is committed to strengthening the city's road infrastructure and enhancing connectivity 

Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta on Thursday (Aug 13) inaugurated the newly constructed 2-Lane Slip Road Bridge connecting the Ghazipur Drain to the Hindon Canal. The project is expected to provide significant relief to lakhs of commuters from Kondli, Kalyanpuri, Ghazipur and adjoining areas by easing traffic congestion, reducing travel time and improving daily connectivity. The inauguration was attended by Delhi BJP President and Union Minister of State Shri Harsh Malhotra, Cabinet Minister Shri Parvesh Sahib Singh Ji, MLAs Shri Ravinder Negi Ji and Shri Ravikant Ji, District President Shri Vijender Dhama Ji, along with public representatives, senior officials, local residents and other dignitaries. Speaking on the occasion, the Chief Minister said that the Delhi Government is committed to strengthening the city's road infrastructure and enhancing connectivity to ensure smoother, faster and more convenient travel for citizens. She added that such infrastructure projects are aimed at improving the overall Ease of Living for every Delhiite. Promoting sustainable waste Earlier this month CM Rekha Gupta inaugurated 'Arpan', a donation centre for old clothes at Punjabi Bagh West Metro Station, marking a significant step towards promoting sustainable waste management and advancing a circular economy in the National Capital. The 'Arpan' initiative seeks to encourage citizens to donate their old, wearable clothes for reuse, recycling and upcycling, thereby reducing textile waste, conserving valuable resources and fostering responsible consumption. By extending the life cycle of clothing, the initiative aims to minimise waste sent to landfills while promoting environmentally sustainable practices across Delhi. Beyond its environmental impact, the initiative is also designed to generate sustainable livelihood opportunities for women through the collection, sorting and processing of donated clothes. This will help create a community-driven model that combines environmental responsibility with social and economic empowerment.

Speaking on the occasion, the Chief Minister said that the Delhi Government is committed to strengthening the city's road infrastructure and enhancing connectivity&nbsp;

Delhi CM Rekha Gupta inaugurates slip road bridge connecting Ghazipur drain to Hindon canal

Nepal’s government has said that it cannot confirm whether it possesses the original signed 1816 Sugauli Treaty papers on the basis of which it has been laying claims to parts of the Indian territory. The treaty defined Nepal’s boundary with British India. The revelation is a setback to Nepal, which has been issuing statements on the Lipulekh-Kalapani-Limpiyadhura dispute with India.&nbsp;The Nepalese government has told its Parliament that it could not confirm whether it possessed the original 1816 Treaty of Sugauli papers.&nbsp;Nepal’s Foreign Minister Shisir Khanal indicated on the floor of Nepal’s Parliament’s lower house (Pratinidhi Sabha) that the government cannot confirm if it possesses the original document of the 1816 Sugauli Treaty.While some papers exist in the National Archives, extensive searches across state departments failed to locate the definitive, original signed document, the minister said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bangladesh-s-power-crisis-worsens-seeks-help-from-india-as-long-outages-spark-outrage-1786626466299">Bangladesh’s power crisis worsens, seeks help from India as long outages spark outrage</a>&nbsp;A parliamentary enquiry searched archives, ministries, and museums but failed to locate the original treaty papers.&nbsp;Nepal claims that Lipulekh, Limpiyadhura, and Kalapani belong to it, while India maintains the areas are part of its Uttarakhand state.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>Dispute hinges on contrasting interpretations of Kali River’s origin</h2>&nbsp;The border dispute, which has repeatedly rocked bilateral ties, hinges substantially on the contrasting interpretations of where the Kali, or Mahakali, river originates because the treaty made the river Nepal’s western boundary.&nbsp;Former Nepal PM KP Sharma Oli turned the territorial dispute into a nationalist issue in 2020, when his government was in trouble. It published a new political map incorporating all three disputed areas and got it endorsed from Parliament through a constitutional amendment.&nbsp;India rejected the move as an “artificial enlargement” of Nepal’s territorial claims after which bilateral relations came under strain.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/houthis-attack-aramco-refinery-in-saudi-arabia-s-jizan-region-with-drones-1786643962330">Houthis attack Aramco refinery in Saudi Arabia’s Jizan region with drones</a>&nbsp;The revelation about missing original treaty papers comes months after Nepal’s new PM Balen Shah stirred a controversy. Balen Shah told the parliament, “After becoming prime minister, I came to know that not only has India encroached on Nepal’s land, but Nepal has also encroached on India’s land in multiple places.”&nbsp;When the statement became a talking point, Nepal’s foreign ministry clarified that the PM was referring to technical cross-border occupations and said Kathmandu’s position on the disputed territories remained unchanged.&nbsp;<h2>East India Company and Nepal signed treaty in 1816&nbsp;</h2>&nbsp;The 1816 Sugauli Treaty was signed between British-ruled India (East India Company) and Nepal after the Anglo-Nepalese War. Nepal had lost the war.&nbsp;The signatories of the treaty were Lieutenant Colonel Paris Bradshaw on behalf of the East India Company and Raj Guru Gajraj Mishra on behalf of the ruler of Nepal, King Girvan Yuddha Bikram Shah.&nbsp;The India-Nepal border is now managed through the Indo-Nepal Treaty of Peace and Friendship (1950) and technical documents produced by joint bilateral working groups.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-could-prolong-war-until-trump-is-out-of-office-says-irgc-adviser-1786565790697">Iran could ‘prolong war’ until Trump is out of office, says IRGC adviser</a>&nbsp;The main dispute along the border is over the ‘Kalapani’ region in the Greater Himalayas which is within India’s borders. When the Home Ministry issued new maps in 2019, Nepal objected to the map, claiming it identifies the region as ‘an unsettled territory of the Darchula district’ within Nepal’s Sudurpashchim province.&nbsp;The India-Nepal border dispute intensified after the India-China agreement to reopen the Lipulekh Pass trade route. Nepal claimed that Lipulekh, Limpiyadhura, and Kalapani are its territories.&nbsp;Nepal’s Foreign Affairs Ministry later said that the unresolved border issues would be addressed through diplomatic dialogue and mutual understanding with India.

Nepal’s Foreign Minister Shisir Khanal said in the Parliament that the government cannot confirm if it possesses the original 1816 Sugauli Treaty. Some papers exist in the National Archives, but searches across departments failed to locate the definitive, original signed document, he added.

Nepal’s government has said that it cannot confirm whether it possesses the original signed 1816 Sugauli Treaty papers on the basis of which it has been laying claims to parts of the Indian territory. The treaty defined Nepal’s boundary with British India. The revelation is a setback to Nepal, which has been issuing statements on the Lipulekh-Kalapani-Limpiyadhura dispute with India. The Nepalese government has told its Parliament that it could not confirm whether it possessed the original 1816 Treaty of Sugauli papers. Nepal’s Foreign Minister Shisir Khanal indicated on the floor of Nepal’s Parliament’s lower house (Pratinidhi Sabha) that the government cannot confirm if it possesses the original document of the 1816 Sugauli Treaty. While some papers exist in the National Archives, extensive searches across state departments failed to locate the definitive, original signed document, the minister said. Also Read: Bangladesh’s power crisis worsens, seeks help from India as long outages spark outrage A parliamentary enquiry searched archives, ministries, and museums but failed to locate the original treaty papers. Nepal claims that Lipulekh, Limpiyadhura, and Kalapani belong to it, while India maintains the areas are part of its Uttarakhand state. Dispute hinges on contrasting interpretations of Kali River’s origin The border dispute, which has repeatedly rocked bilateral ties, hinges substantially on the contrasting interpretations of where the Kali, or Mahakali, river originates because the treaty made the river Nepal’s western boundary. Former Nepal PM KP Sharma Oli turned the territorial dispute into a nationalist issue in 2020, when his government was in trouble. It published a new political map incorporating all three disputed areas and got it endorsed from Parliament through a constitutional amendment. India rejected the move as an “artificial enlargement” of Nepal’s territorial claims after which bilateral relations came under strain. Also Read: Houthis attack Aramco refinery in Saudi Arabia’s Jizan region with drones The revelation about missing original treaty papers comes months after Nepal’s new PM Balen Shah stirred a controversy. Balen Shah told the parliament, “After becoming prime minister, I came to know that not only has India encroached on Nepal’s land, but Nepal has also encroached on India’s land in multiple places.” When the statement became a talking point, Nepal’s foreign ministry clarified that the PM was referring to technical cross-border occupations and said Kathmandu’s position on the disputed territories remained unchanged. East India Company and Nepal signed treaty in 1816 The 1816 Sugauli Treaty was signed between British-ruled India (East India Company) and Nepal after the Anglo-Nepalese War. Nepal had lost the war. The signatories of the treaty were Lieutenant Colonel Paris Bradshaw on behalf of the East India Company and Raj Guru Gajraj Mishra on behalf of the ruler of Nepal, King Girvan Yuddha Bikram Shah. The India-Nepal border is now managed through the Indo-Nepal Treaty of Peace and Friendship (1950) and technical documents produced by joint bilateral working groups. Also Read: Iran could ‘prolong war’ until Trump is out of office, says IRGC adviser The main dispute along the border is over the ‘Kalapani’ region in the Greater Himalayas which is within India’s borders. When the Home Ministry issued new maps in 2019, Nepal objected to the map, claiming it identifies the region as ‘an unsettled territory of the Darchula district’ within Nepal’s Sudurpashchim province. The India-Nepal border dispute intensified after the India-China agreement to reopen the Lipulekh Pass trade route. Nepal claimed that Lipulekh, Limpiyadhura, and Kalapani are its territories. Nepal’s Foreign Affairs Ministry later said that the unresolved border issues would be addressed through diplomatic dialogue and mutual understanding with India.

Nepal’s Foreign Minister Shisir Khanal said in the Parliament that the government cannot confirm if it possesses the original 1816 Sugauli Treaty. Some papers exist in the National Archives, but searches across departments failed to locate the definitive, original signed document, he added.

Nepal claims Indian territory, but its minister says the 210-year-old Sugauli Treaty is untraceable

The West Bengal government on Thursday (August 13) withdrew and annulled the Banga Bibhushan honour given to BJP Rajya Sabha member Nagendra Ray, also known as Ananta Maharaj, a day after Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari warned against derogatory remarks about Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose.&nbsp;The move followed a controversy over alleged remarks by Ray about Netaji. Ray had allegedly called Netaji a “war criminal” and questioned the contribution of the Indian National Army to India's freedom struggle.&nbsp;The government order said that certain facts and circumstances that emerged after the honour was conferred raised questions over whether Ray could continue to retain it. After examining the material on record, the competent authority concluded that retaining the award was inconsistent with its dignity, prestige and purpose.&nbsp;"Upon such consideration, the competent authority is satisfied that the continued retention of the Banga Bibhushan by Shri Nagendra Ray alias Ananta Maharaj is inconsistent with the dignity, prestige and purpose of the honour," the order stated.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/we-can-drive-them-crazy-modi-does-not-sleep-at-night-rahul-gandhi-attacks-pm-amit-shah-1786629682368">'We can drive them crazy, Modi does not sleep at night': Rahul Gandhi attacks PM, Amit Shah</a><h2>Government annuls honour with immediate effect</h2>The government said it had withdrawn and annulled the honour with immediate effect.&nbsp;"Now, therefore, the Government of West Bengal hereby withdraws and annuls the Banga Bibhushan conferred upon Shri Nagendra Ray alias Ananta Maharaj on 21st February, 2026 with immediate effect," the order said.&nbsp;Ananta Maharaj, a leader from Cooch Behar, entered the Rajya Sabha in July 2023 as a BJP-backed candidate. He received West Bengal's highest civilian honour on February 21, 2026, from the then Mamata Banerjee-led Trinamool Congress government.&nbsp;The government said the award recognised “distinguished and exemplary contributions” to West Bengal and its people. It also described the honour as carrying “a high degree of dignity, prestige, and institutional purpose”.&nbsp;Following the decision, Ananta Maharaj will no longer be entitled to identify himself as a Banga Bibhushan recipient. He will also not be able to claim any recognition, privilege or benefit linked to the conferment of the honour.&nbsp;The government has directed all concerned authorities to remove his name from official records and lists of Banga Bibhushan recipients.

West Bengal has withdrawn the Banga Bibhushan honour from BJP Rajya Sabha MP Nagendra Ray amid controversy over his alleged remarks about Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose.

The West Bengal government on Thursday (August 13) withdrew and annulled the Banga Bibhushan honour given to BJP Rajya Sabha member Nagendra Ray, also known as Ananta Maharaj, a day after Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari warned against derogatory remarks about Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose. The move followed a controversy over alleged remarks by Ray about Netaji. Ray had allegedly called Netaji a “war criminal” and questioned the contribution of the Indian National Army to India's freedom struggle. The government order said that certain facts and circumstances that emerged after the honour was conferred raised questions over whether Ray could continue to retain it. After examining the material on record, the competent authority concluded that retaining the award was inconsistent with its dignity, prestige and purpose. "Upon such consideration, the competent authority is satisfied that the continued retention of the Banga Bibhushan by Shri Nagendra Ray alias Ananta Maharaj is inconsistent with the dignity, prestige and purpose of the honour," the order stated. Also Read: 'We can drive them crazy, Modi does not sleep at night': Rahul Gandhi attacks PM, Amit Shah Government annuls honour with immediate effect The government said it had withdrawn and annulled the honour with immediate effect. "Now, therefore, the Government of West Bengal hereby withdraws and annuls the Banga Bibhushan conferred upon Shri Nagendra Ray alias Ananta Maharaj on 21st February, 2026 with immediate effect," the order said. Ananta Maharaj, a leader from Cooch Behar, entered the Rajya Sabha in July 2023 as a BJP-backed candidate. He received West Bengal's highest civilian honour on February 21, 2026, from the then Mamata Banerjee-led Trinamool Congress government. The government said the award recognised “distinguished and exemplary contributions” to West Bengal and its people. It also described the honour as carrying “a high degree of dignity, prestige, and institutional purpose”. Following the decision, Ananta Maharaj will no longer be entitled to identify himself as a Banga Bibhushan recipient. He will also not be able to claim any recognition, privilege or benefit linked to the conferment of the honour. The government has directed all concerned authorities to remove his name from official records and lists of Banga Bibhushan recipients.

West Bengal has withdrawn the Banga Bibhushan honour from BJP Rajya Sabha MP Nagendra Ray amid controversy over his alleged remarks about Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose.

West Bengal withdraws Banga Bibhushan honour from BJP MP Nagendra Ray amid Netaji remarks row

Congress MP and Leader of Opposition in the parliament Rahul Gandhi on Thursday (Aug 13) said that the BJP-led government at the Centre was increasingly unsettled by people's voices, while their job is to let the people of India express themselves. Speaking at the Ratchnatmak Congress National Convention in Delhi he also took a dig at Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah.&nbsp;“Our job is very simple and we can drive them crazy...I am telling you, (PM) Narendra Modi does not sleep at night,” Rahul said.&nbsp;While he questioned Union Home Minister Amit Shah's absence from the parliament and said for the first time the BJP led government is "feeling India’s expression".&nbsp;You saw Amit Shah, the so-called—what was he called? Chanakya, what else? Sardar Patel. Where has he disappeared? He couldn't come to the Parliament House for 20 days. Why? Because for the first time, they are feeling India's expression. And now they have realised that this country will not stop expressing itself," he said.&nbsp;<h2>“You cannot express yourselves”</h2>&nbsp;He also slammed the Modi government for its handling of the Jantar Mantar protests over the NEET-UG paper leak.&nbsp;"What was happening at Jantar Mantar is that students want to express themselves. They are in pain, and they want to express themselves, and the government says no. We are going to create order at Jantar Mantar. You cannot express yourselves," he said.&nbsp;Gandhi accused the BJP of "imposing an order on India that benefits them."&nbsp;So their job and their political philosophy is to impose an order on India, an order that benefits them and certain other people. And our job is to make India express itself and break that order,” Gandhi added.&nbsp;The CJP-led protest at Jantar Mantar ended after the resignation of Dharmendra Pradhan as Education Minister. Opposition parties in Parliament demanded a statement from Home Minister Amit Shah on "police action" against the protestors.&nbsp;

Rahul questioned Union Home Minister Amit Shah's absence from the parliament and said for the first time the BJP led government is "feeling India’s expression".

Congress MP and Leader of Opposition in the parliament Rahul Gandhi on Thursday (Aug 13) said that the BJP-led government at the Centre was increasingly unsettled by people's voices, while their job is to let the people of India express themselves. Speaking at the Ratchnatmak Congress National Convention in Delhi he also took a dig at Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah. “Our job is very simple and we can drive them crazy...I am telling you, (PM) Narendra Modi does not sleep at night,” Rahul said. While he questioned Union Home Minister Amit Shah's absence from the parliament and said for the first time the BJP led government is "feeling India’s expression". You saw Amit Shah, the so-called—what was he called? Chanakya, what else? Sardar Patel. Where has he disappeared? He couldn't come to the Parliament House for 20 days. Why? Because for the first time, they are feeling India's expression. And now they have realised that this country will not stop expressing itself," he said. “You cannot express yourselves” He also slammed the Modi government for its handling of the Jantar Mantar protests over the NEET-UG paper leak. "What was happening at Jantar Mantar is that students want to express themselves. They are in pain, and they want to express themselves, and the government says no. We are going to create order at Jantar Mantar. You cannot express yourselves," he said. Gandhi accused the BJP of "imposing an order on India that benefits them." So their job and their political philosophy is to impose an order on India, an order that benefits them and certain other people. And our job is to make India express itself and break that order,” Gandhi added. The CJP-led protest at Jantar Mantar ended after the resignation of Dharmendra Pradhan as Education Minister. Opposition parties in Parliament demanded a statement from Home Minister Amit Shah on "police action" against the protestors.

Rahul questioned Union Home Minister Amit Shah's absence from the parliament and said for the first time the BJP led government is "feeling India’s expression".

'We can drive them crazy, Modi does not sleep at night': Rahul Gandhi attacks PM, Amit Shah

The Jharkhand Police on Thursday (August 13) registered an FIR against 600 protesters over the March towards the State Assembly in Ranchi. The FIR names 100 protesters, while police have also booked 500 unidentified students and other participants.&nbsp;Police are examining CCTV footage and other available evidence to identify individuals allegedly involved in violence, damage to public property and violations of law and order.&nbsp;The FIR follows a protest by thousands of JPSC and JSSC job aspirants who marched towards the Jharkhand Assembly on August 10. The protesters were demonstrating against alleged irregularities in state recruitment examinations.&nbsp;The Assembly gherao turned tense when protesters tried to cross police barricades. Security personnel used tear gas, water cannons and baton charges to disperse the gathering.&nbsp;Police alleged that some protesters turned violent and resorted to stone pelting during the confrontation. Protesters, however, accused the police of using excessive force against job aspirants who had gathered to seek answers over recruitment-related issues.&nbsp;Several protesters and police personnel were reportedly injured during the confrontation.&nbsp;The students' protest over alleged irregularities in Jharkhand recruitment examinations has now entered its 20th day. The agitators have refused to end the protest until the government meets their demands.&nbsp;The ‘JPSC-JSSC Reforms Manch’ has been holding demonstrations at the Jaipal Singh Munda Stadium in Ranchi. The protesters are demanding greater transparency in recruitment examinations, cancellation of several tests and an independent probe by the CBI or a panel of retired judges from outside Jharkhand.&nbsp;Six rounds of talks between the government and student representatives have failed to resolve the deadlock.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bangladesh-s-power-crisis-worsens-seeks-help-from-india-as-long-outages-spark-outrage-1786626466299">Bangladesh’s power crisis worsens, seeks help from India as long outages spark outrage</a><h2>BJP attacks government over FIR</h2>The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) criticised the FIR against the protesters, saying, “Congress-JMM sarkar just showed its true colours!”&nbsp;"While students protest exam scams and fight for a fair future, the JMM-Congress government responds with FIRs against 600 young aspirants. They know that a criminal case can destroy careers, jobs and dreams of youths, but WHO CARES!," the BJP posted on X.

Jharkhand's JPSC and JSSC job aspirants' protest against alleged recruitment exam irregularities entered its 20th day as police booked 600 protesters over the August 10 Assembly march in Ranchi.

The Jharkhand Police on Thursday (August 13) registered an FIR against 600 protesters over the March towards the State Assembly in Ranchi. The FIR names 100 protesters, while police have also booked 500 unidentified students and other participants. Police are examining CCTV footage and other available evidence to identify individuals allegedly involved in violence, damage to public property and violations of law and order. The FIR follows a protest by thousands of JPSC and JSSC job aspirants who marched towards the Jharkhand Assembly on August 10. The protesters were demonstrating against alleged irregularities in state recruitment examinations. The Assembly gherao turned tense when protesters tried to cross police barricades. Security personnel used tear gas, water cannons and baton charges to disperse the gathering. Police alleged that some protesters turned violent and resorted to stone pelting during the confrontation. Protesters, however, accused the police of using excessive force against job aspirants who had gathered to seek answers over recruitment-related issues. Several protesters and police personnel were reportedly injured during the confrontation. The students' protest over alleged irregularities in Jharkhand recruitment examinations has now entered its 20th day. The agitators have refused to end the protest until the government meets their demands. The ‘JPSC-JSSC Reforms Manch’ has been holding demonstrations at the Jaipal Singh Munda Stadium in Ranchi. The protesters are demanding greater transparency in recruitment examinations, cancellation of several tests and an independent probe by the CBI or a panel of retired judges from outside Jharkhand. Six rounds of talks between the government and student representatives have failed to resolve the deadlock. Also Read: Bangladesh’s power crisis worsens, seeks help from India as long outages spark outrage BJP attacks government over FIR The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) criticised the FIR against the protesters, saying, “Congress-JMM sarkar just showed its true colours!” "While students protest exam scams and fight for a fair future, the JMM-Congress government responds with FIRs against 600 young aspirants. They know that a criminal case can destroy careers, jobs and dreams of youths, but WHO CARES!," the BJP posted on X.

Jharkhand's JPSC and JSSC job aspirants' protest against alleged recruitment exam irregularities entered its 20th day as police booked 600 protesters over the August 10 Assembly march in Ranchi.

Jharkhand students protest: Police book 600 protesters over Assembly march in Ranchi

The former MP and Janata Dal (Secular) leader, Prajwal Revanna, who is serving &nbsp;life imprisonment in one of the rape cases filed against him in the Holenarasipura Rural Police Station in the Indian state of Karnataka is facing fresh scrutiny. Investigators during a recent search operation at &nbsp;Bengaluru’s Parappana Agrahara Central Prison reportedly recovered a mobile phone from his jail cell that had dozens of pornographic videos saved in it.&nbsp;The raid inside the prison by Central Crime Branch (CCB) was part of a drive targeting high-profile inmates. Following further probe investigators reportedly found between 80 and 90 downloaded pornographic videos, reported India Today.&nbsp;The clips were largely Indian pornographic content, as reported. Newspaper cuttings were also found of women in revealing clothes on the device.&nbsp;ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/air-india-orders-mandatory-dope-test-for-all-its-pilots-after-captain-tested-positive-1786620025442">Air India orders mandatory dope test for all its pilots after captain tests positive</a>&nbsp;A detailed forensic analysis of the phone is being conducted to get to the origin of the video files, images and other digital data stored on the device. The investigators are also trying to establish any relevance of the clips regarding the ongoing criminal proceedings against Revanna, the grandson of former Indian PM H D Deve Gowda.&nbsp;The incident has prompted strict action against Assistant Superintendent Iranna Rangapur. He has been suspended on the recommendation of the DIG (South), with authorities citing alleged dereliction of duty. A show cause notice has also been issued to Superintendent of Bengaluru Central Prison.&nbsp;A departmental inquiry has also been ordered to determine how the mobile phone entered the prison and remained inside the barrack.&nbsp;<h2>What’s the case against Revanna and how many?</h2>&nbsp;There are a total of four cases against Revanna that contain charges of rape and sexual assault. On August 1, he was convicted &nbsp;in the case in which a 48-year-old woman, who was employed as house help at his family's Gannikada farmhouse in Karnataka's Hassan, alleged that she was raped twice in 2021, and the act was filmed by the accused Revanna.&nbsp;Revanna, after being convicted, claimed that the woman complained only when some videos were circulated, and that she did not raise alarm about the alleged rape to even her husband or kin.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The clips were largely Indian pornographic content, as reported. Newspaper cuttings were also found of women in revealing clothes on the device.

The former MP and Janata Dal (Secular) leader, Prajwal Revanna, who is serving life imprisonment in one of the rape cases filed against him in the Holenarasipura Rural Police Station in the Indian state of Karnataka is facing fresh scrutiny. Investigators during a recent search operation at Bengaluru’s Parappana Agrahara Central Prison reportedly recovered a mobile phone from his jail cell that had dozens of pornographic videos saved in it. The raid inside the prison by Central Crime Branch (CCB) was part of a drive targeting high-profile inmates. Following further probe investigators reportedly found between 80 and 90 downloaded pornographic videos, reported India Today. The clips were largely Indian pornographic content, as reported. Newspaper cuttings were also found of women in revealing clothes on the device. ALSO READ: Air India orders mandatory dope test for all its pilots after captain tests positive A detailed forensic analysis of the phone is being conducted to get to the origin of the video files, images and other digital data stored on the device. The investigators are also trying to establish any relevance of the clips regarding the ongoing criminal proceedings against Revanna, the grandson of former Indian PM H D Deve Gowda. The incident has prompted strict action against Assistant Superintendent Iranna Rangapur. He has been suspended on the recommendation of the DIG (South), with authorities citing alleged dereliction of duty. A show cause notice has also been issued to Superintendent of Bengaluru Central Prison. A departmental inquiry has also been ordered to determine how the mobile phone entered the prison and remained inside the barrack. What’s the case against Revanna and how many? There are a total of four cases against Revanna that contain charges of rape and sexual assault. On August 1, he was convicted in the case in which a 48-year-old woman, who was employed as house help at his family's Gannikada farmhouse in Karnataka's Hassan, alleged that she was raped twice in 2021, and the act was filmed by the accused Revanna. Revanna, after being convicted, claimed that the woman complained only when some videos were circulated, and that she did not raise alarm about the alleged rape to even her husband or kin.

The clips were largely Indian pornographic content, as reported. Newspaper cuttings were also found of women in revealing clothes on the device.

Mobile phone with 90 porn videos, women’s photos recovered from rape convict Prajwal Revanna's cell

Barely 48 hours before Independence Day, an interception on the India-Bangladesh border has ignited a major espionage investigation in West Bengal after a suspected Pakistani operative was caught carrying a map and photographs of Fort William- the Indian Army's Eastern Command headquarters.&nbsp;Officers from the state's Special Task Force arrested the man, identified as Rana Rauf Khalid (alias Wahab Alam), along with an associate, Mohammad Ijaz, late Tuesday night in Habra, a border town in North 24 Parganas. The two were reportedly heading toward an unfenced stretch of the frontier along Jessore Road, apparently attempting to cross into Bangladesh, when STF personnel intercepted them.<h2>Fort William material at the centre of the probe</h2>The arrest has escalated into a wider security investigation because of what the two men were allegedly carrying: a map and photographs of Fort William, the historic garrison in Kolkata that now serves as headquarters for the Army's Eastern Command. Investigators are working to trace the origin of the material and its intended purpose.&nbsp;"One of the important aspects being examined is how the map and photographs of Fort William came into the possession of the accused, and whether these were part of any information-gathering activity," the STF official said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-challenges-trump-s-hormuz-claim-says-tehran-controls-strait-not-us-1786622171668">Iran challenges Trump’s Hormuz claim; says Tehran controls strait, not US</a><h2>Wiped phones and a cross-border digital trail</h2>Mobile phones seized from the two men are said to contain social media exchanges and contact numbers linking to Pakistan, Nepal, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh. Some data had reportedly been deleted before the arrest, and reconstructing it has become a priority for investigators trying to map out the men's contacts and communications.&nbsp;The STF is also examining whether the pair had collected information on troop movements and infrastructure near the Petrapole and Ghojadanga border crossings- both considered sensitive points along the India-Bangladesh frontier- &nbsp;and whether their activities tie into a larger network active in the run-up to August 15. Officials stressed the investigation remains preliminary, with military intelligence units now involved.<h2>A trail from Faisalabad to Kathmandu to Topsia</h2>Investigators say Rauf is originally from Faisalabad, Pakistan, and moved to Kathmandu around 12 years ago to work as a wood-carving craftsman. It was there he is believed to have met Ijaz, a furniture trader from Kolkata's Topsia area.&nbsp;According to the STF, Rauf entered India six times over the years via the open, visa-free Indo-Nepal border, staying at Ijaz's Topsia residence for two- to three-month stretches each time. Investigators allege Ijaz helped him secure fake Aadhaar and voter ID documents during these visits, and that Rauf used the time to attempt recruiting young Indians for an as-yet-unspecified purpose.&nbsp;Officials say "confidential documents" recovered from the two men are being examined, though their contents haven't been made public. The STF is also probing Rauf's suspected links to Pakistan's Inter-Services Intelligence, citing alleged contact with ISI officials at the Pakistani High Commission in Kathmandu.&nbsp;After the arrest, Rauf was taken to Habra hospital for a routine medical check-up. Both men were subsequently produced before a court in Barasat, which remanded them to 14 days of police custody.No confirmed link to earlier Purba Burdhaman case&nbsp;The arrest follows the STF's detention of another suspect, Hamim Mondal — allegedly linked to Jaish-e-Mohammed — from a housing complex in Purba Burdhaman on July 30. Mondal is accused of conducting reconnaissance near Chinar Park in New Town, Kolkata, where Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari resides, allegedly tracking his rallies and appearances to map security vulnerabilities.&nbsp;Investigators say no connection has been established between Rauf and Mondal so far, treating the two cases as separate threads for now.

A suspected Pakistani spy was arrested near the India-Bangladesh border with reconnaissance material linked to Fort William, while security agencies probe his alleged connections with Pakistan's ISI.

Barely 48 hours before Independence Day, an interception on the India-Bangladesh border has ignited a major espionage investigation in West Bengal after a suspected Pakistani operative was caught carrying a map and photographs of Fort William- the Indian Army's Eastern Command headquarters. Officers from the state's Special Task Force arrested the man, identified as Rana Rauf Khalid (alias Wahab Alam), along with an associate, Mohammad Ijaz, late Tuesday night in Habra, a border town in North 24 Parganas. The two were reportedly heading toward an unfenced stretch of the frontier along Jessore Road, apparently attempting to cross into Bangladesh, when STF personnel intercepted them. Fort William material at the centre of the probe The arrest has escalated into a wider security investigation because of what the two men were allegedly carrying: a map and photographs of Fort William, the historic garrison in Kolkata that now serves as headquarters for the Army's Eastern Command. Investigators are working to trace the origin of the material and its intended purpose. "One of the important aspects being examined is how the map and photographs of Fort William came into the possession of the accused, and whether these were part of any information-gathering activity," the STF official said. Also Read: Iran challenges Trump’s Hormuz claim; says Tehran controls strait, not US Wiped phones and a cross-border digital trail Mobile phones seized from the two men are said to contain social media exchanges and contact numbers linking to Pakistan, Nepal, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh. Some data had reportedly been deleted before the arrest, and reconstructing it has become a priority for investigators trying to map out the men's contacts and communications. The STF is also examining whether the pair had collected information on troop movements and infrastructure near the Petrapole and Ghojadanga border crossings- both considered sensitive points along the India-Bangladesh frontier- and whether their activities tie into a larger network active in the run-up to August 15. Officials stressed the investigation remains preliminary, with military intelligence units now involved. A trail from Faisalabad to Kathmandu to Topsia Investigators say Rauf is originally from Faisalabad, Pakistan, and moved to Kathmandu around 12 years ago to work as a wood-carving craftsman. It was there he is believed to have met Ijaz, a furniture trader from Kolkata's Topsia area. According to the STF, Rauf entered India six times over the years via the open, visa-free Indo-Nepal border, staying at Ijaz's Topsia residence for two- to three-month stretches each time. Investigators allege Ijaz helped him secure fake Aadhaar and voter ID documents during these visits, and that Rauf used the time to attempt recruiting young Indians for an as-yet-unspecified purpose. Officials say "confidential documents" recovered from the two men are being examined, though their contents haven't been made public. The STF is also probing Rauf's suspected links to Pakistan's Inter-Services Intelligence, citing alleged contact with ISI officials at the Pakistani High Commission in Kathmandu. After the arrest, Rauf was taken to Habra hospital for a routine medical check-up. Both men were subsequently produced before a court in Barasat, which remanded them to 14 days of police custody. No confirmed link to earlier Purba Burdhaman case The arrest follows the STF's detention of another suspect, Hamim Mondal — allegedly linked to Jaish-e-Mohammed — from a housing complex in Purba Burdhaman on July 30. Mondal is accused of conducting reconnaissance near Chinar Park in New Town, Kolkata, where Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari resides, allegedly tracking his rallies and appearances to map security vulnerabilities. Investigators say no connection has been established between Rauf and Mondal so far, treating the two cases as separate threads for now.

A suspected Pakistani spy was arrested near the India-Bangladesh border with reconnaissance material linked to Fort William, while security agencies probe his alleged connections with Pakistan's ISI.

Pakistani spy held near India-Bangladesh border with Fort William recon material; ISI links under probe

Two years after a young doctor's rape and murder at Kolkata's RG Kar Medical College and Hospital convulsed West Bengal, the case has claimed its most politically significant scalp yet. Nirmal Ghosh, a former Trinamool Congress MLA from Panihati, was arrested in Odisha on Thursday, accused of orchestrating a hurried, unauthorised cremation that the victim's family says was designed to destroy evidence.&nbsp;Ghosh was brought back to Bengal by a Barrackpore Police Commissionerate team after evading investigators for days following an FIR lodged against him at Khardah police station. His son, Tirthankar Ghosh, had already been arrested in an earlier phase of the investigation in July.<h2>What the Family Alleges</h2>The FIR, filed by the father of the victim- referred to as Abhaya- centres on the chaotic hours after the 31-year-old postgraduate trainee's body was discovered at RG Kar on August 9, 2024. The complaint alleges that Ghosh, along with two local municipal councillors, forced entry into the family's home, intimidated relatives, and had the body driven to the Panihati crematorium without giving the family time to grieve or the chance to consent.&nbsp;The family maintains the cremation was rushed specifically to prevent a second post-mortem examination- one they believe could have surfaced forensic evidence contradicting the official account of the crime. Investigators have flagged several irregularities that lend weight to that suspicion:&nbsp;<ul><li>&nbsp;The doctor's body was third in the queue at the crematorium, yet was moved to the front without explanation.</li><li>&nbsp;The cremation certificate carries no signature from any family member.</li><li>Instead, Sanjib Mukherjee — a neighbour the family did not know — reportedly signed the document as the informant.</li></ul>Ghosh now faces charges including criminal trespass, wrongful restraint, criminal intimidation, causing disappearance of evidence, trespass on burial places, criminal conspiracy, and preparing a false record as a public servant, carrying a potential sentence of up to seven years. Two other named accused, former Panihati Municipality councillors Somnath Dey and Sanjib Mukherjee, were already in police custody earlier in the week.<h2>The Politics Behind the Arrest</h2>Suvendu Adhikari, West Bengal's Chief Minister after BJP's rise to power, has used the RG Kar case to reinforce the party's political messaging around justice for "Abhaya," the pseudonym given to the murdered doctor. He announced a fresh probe into the case at the request of the victim's mother, Ratna Debnath, who is now a BJP MLA, ordering a special investigation and a separate probe into the alleged mishandling of the cremation. Central to his allegations was the claim that the victim's body, originally third in the crematorium queue at Natagarh Kadamtala, was abruptly moved to first position and cremated in unusual haste, with cremation charges left unpaid by the family. Adhikari framed this as part of a broader commitment, declaring the government's resolve to fight for justice and recalling the emotional weight of August 9, 2024, the day the doctor's body was found.

Former TMC MLA Nirmal Ghosh has been arrested in Odisha in connection with the alleged hurried cremation of the RG Kar rape-murder victim. The case raises fresh questions over possible evidence tampering, irregularities in the cremation process and the events following the doctor's death.

Two years after a young doctor's rape and murder at Kolkata's RG Kar Medical College and Hospital convulsed West Bengal, the case has claimed its most politically significant scalp yet. Nirmal Ghosh, a former Trinamool Congress MLA from Panihati, was arrested in Odisha on Thursday, accused of orchestrating a hurried, unauthorised cremation that the victim's family says was designed to destroy evidence. Ghosh was brought back to Bengal by a Barrackpore Police Commissionerate team after evading investigators for days following an FIR lodged against him at Khardah police station. His son, Tirthankar Ghosh, had already been arrested in an earlier phase of the investigation in July. What the Family Alleges The FIR, filed by the father of the victim- referred to as Abhaya- centres on the chaotic hours after the 31-year-old postgraduate trainee's body was discovered at RG Kar on August 9, 2024. The complaint alleges that Ghosh, along with two local municipal councillors, forced entry into the family's home, intimidated relatives, and had the body driven to the Panihati crematorium without giving the family time to grieve or the chance to consent. The family maintains the cremation was rushed specifically to prevent a second post-mortem examination- one they believe could have surfaced forensic evidence contradicting the official account of the crime. Investigators have flagged several irregularities that lend weight to that suspicion: The doctor's body was third in the queue at the crematorium, yet was moved to the front without explanation. The cremation certificate carries no signature from any family member. Instead, Sanjib Mukherjee — a neighbour the family did not know — reportedly signed the document as the informant. Ghosh now faces charges including criminal trespass, wrongful restraint, criminal intimidation, causing disappearance of evidence, trespass on burial places, criminal conspiracy, and preparing a false record as a public servant, carrying a potential sentence of up to seven years. Two other named accused, former Panihati Municipality councillors Somnath Dey and Sanjib Mukherjee, were already in police custody earlier in the week. The Politics Behind the Arrest Suvendu Adhikari, West Bengal's Chief Minister after BJP's rise to power, has used the RG Kar case to reinforce the party's political messaging around justice for "Abhaya," the pseudonym given to the murdered doctor. He announced a fresh probe into the case at the request of the victim's mother, Ratna Debnath, who is now a BJP MLA, ordering a special investigation and a separate probe into the alleged mishandling of the cremation. Central to his allegations was the claim that the victim's body, originally third in the crematorium queue at Natagarh Kadamtala, was abruptly moved to first position and cremated in unusual haste, with cremation charges left unpaid by the family. Adhikari framed this as part of a broader commitment, declaring the government's resolve to fight for justice and recalling the emotional weight of August 9, 2024, the day the doctor's body was found.

Former TMC MLA Nirmal Ghosh has been arrested in Odisha in connection with the alleged hurried cremation of the RG Kar rape-murder victim. The case raises fresh questions over possible evidence tampering, irregularities in the cremation process and the events following the doctor's death.

Former TMC MLA Nirmal Ghosh arrested in RG Kar cremation cover-up case

After it was confirmed in a test that the pilot in command (PIC) of the Air India flight from Phuket to Delhi that encountered a sudden loss of altitude last week was on marijuana, and was also taking medicines for "sleep difficulty", according to the airline's internal flight safety report, the airlines has ordered a fresh mandatory dope test for all its pilots.&nbsp;The testing begins today, as per the airline's formal letter sent to its employees.&nbsp;"As you know, Air India already fully complies with all regulatory requirements prescribed by India's DGCA, which are similar to those practiced in other major aviation jurisdictions including Europe and the United States. We nevertheless now feel that it is important to go further. Accordingly, we have decided to undertake a full screening of all Group pilots for any substances or medications that are not permitted under prevailing regulations," read the letter addressed to the pilots.&nbsp;The test will be conducted at the Gurugram Academy, post-flight at Air India's flight briefing centres and offices, the airline said.&nbsp;"For decades, Air India has been the flagbearer of Indian aviation. Over this time, the professionalism, skill and commitment to safety of our pilots, together with other staff, has earned the trust of millions of passengers and the wider community. This trust is our most important asset, and it is vital that we do all possible to protect and sustain it. Many of you have recently reached out to share the same sentiment," the airline said.&nbsp;The incident, involving an Airbus A320neo, injured 13 passengers and four crew members. However, the aircraft that suddenly lost about 300 feet of altitude while it was flying from Phuket to Delhi carrying 137 passengers and eight crew members, landed safely in Delhi.&nbsp;<h2>How India tests pilots for alcohol and drugs, what happens after a positive result?</h2>Alcohol and drug testing are handled differently because alcohol can be measured through breath or blood alcohol concentration, while drug screening generally involves biological samples and subsequent laboratory confirmation.&nbsp;Under DGCA rules, flight crew members operating scheduled flights originating from India are required to undergo a pre-flight breath-analyser examination at the first departure airport during a flight duty period. If a crew member operates a flight without undergoing the test, the person is to be taken off the roster at the first point of landing, and the matter reported to the DGCA.India has separate but complementary rules covering alcohol and psychoactive substances.&nbsp;Under Rule 24 of the Aircraft Rules, 1937, a person acting as a pilot or other operating crew member cannot consume alcohol, sedatives, narcotic or stimulant drugs within 12 hours before the commencement of a flight or during the flight. The rules also prohibit crew from being in a state of intoxication or having detectable blood alcohol while performing their duties.&nbsp;For alcohol, DGCA rules require pre-flight breath-analyser testing for flight crew and cabin crew on scheduled flights. The equipment and testing process are regulated, with confirmatory testing available when an initial result is positive. Positive or missed tests must be reported to the DGCA within 24 hours.

 The aircraft that suddenly lost about 300 feet of altitude while it was flying from Phuket to Delhi carrying 137 passengers and eight crew members, landed safely in Delhi.

After it was confirmed in a test that the pilot in command (PIC) of the Air India flight from Phuket to Delhi that encountered a sudden loss of altitude last week was on marijuana, and was also taking medicines for "sleep difficulty", according to the airline's internal flight safety report, the airlines has ordered a fresh mandatory dope test for all its pilots. The testing begins today, as per the airline's formal letter sent to its employees. "As you know, Air India already fully complies with all regulatory requirements prescribed by India's DGCA, which are similar to those practiced in other major aviation jurisdictions including Europe and the United States. We nevertheless now feel that it is important to go further. Accordingly, we have decided to undertake a full screening of all Group pilots for any substances or medications that are not permitted under prevailing regulations," read the letter addressed to the pilots. The test will be conducted at the Gurugram Academy, post-flight at Air India's flight briefing centres and offices, the airline said. "For decades, Air India has been the flagbearer of Indian aviation. Over this time, the professionalism, skill and commitment to safety of our pilots, together with other staff, has earned the trust of millions of passengers and the wider community. This trust is our most important asset, and it is vital that we do all possible to protect and sustain it. Many of you have recently reached out to share the same sentiment," the airline said. The incident, involving an Airbus A320neo, injured 13 passengers and four crew members. However, the aircraft that suddenly lost about 300 feet of altitude while it was flying from Phuket to Delhi carrying 137 passengers and eight crew members, landed safely in Delhi. How India tests pilots for alcohol and drugs, what happens after a positive result? Alcohol and drug testing are handled differently because alcohol can be measured through breath or blood alcohol concentration, while drug screening generally involves biological samples and subsequent laboratory confirmation. Under DGCA rules, flight crew members operating scheduled flights originating from India are required to undergo a pre-flight breath-analyser examination at the first departure airport during a flight duty period. If a crew member operates a flight without undergoing the test, the person is to be taken off the roster at the first point of landing, and the matter reported to the DGCA. India has separate but complementary rules covering alcohol and psychoactive substances. Under Rule 24 of the Aircraft Rules, 1937, a person acting as a pilot or other operating crew member cannot consume alcohol, sedatives, narcotic or stimulant drugs within 12 hours before the commencement of a flight or during the flight. The rules also prohibit crew from being in a state of intoxication or having detectable blood alcohol while performing their duties. For alcohol, DGCA rules require pre-flight breath-analyser testing for flight crew and cabin crew on scheduled flights. The equipment and testing process are regulated, with confirmatory testing available when an initial result is positive. Positive or missed tests must be reported to the DGCA within 24 hours.

&nbsp;The aircraft that suddenly lost about 300 feet of altitude while it was flying from Phuket to Delhi carrying 137 passengers and eight crew members, landed safely in Delhi.

Air India orders mandatory dope test for all its pilots after captain tests positive

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Air India orders mandatory dope test for its pilots after captain tests positive