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<p>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.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>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.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The clips were largely Indian pornographic content, as reported. Newspaper cuttings were also found of women in revealing clothes on the device.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong> <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></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>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.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>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.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>A departmental inquiry has also been ordered to determine how the mobile phone entered the prison and remained inside the barrack.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><h2>What’s the case against Revanna and how many?</h2><p>&nbsp;</p><p>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.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>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.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

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.

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

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

<p>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.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>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.</p><h2>Fort William material at the centre of the probe</h2><p>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.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>"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.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-challenges-trump-s-hormuz-claim-says-tehran-controls-strait-not-us-1786622171668"><strong>Iran challenges Trump’s Hormuz claim; says Tehran controls strait, not US</strong></a></p><h2>Wiped phones and a cross-border digital trail</h2><p>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.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>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.</p><h2>A trail from Faisalabad to Kathmandu to Topsia</h2><p>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.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>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.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>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.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>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.</p><p>No confirmed link to earlier Purba Burdhaman case</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>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.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Investigators say no connection has been established between Rauf and Mondal so far, treating the two cases as separate threads for now.</p>

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.

<p>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.</p>

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

<p>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.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>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.</p><h2>What the Family Alleges</h2><p>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.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>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:</p><p>&nbsp;</p><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><p>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.</p><h2>The Politics Behind the Arrest</h2><p>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.</p>

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.

<p>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.</p>

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

<p>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.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The testing begins today, as per the airline's formal letter sent to its employees.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>"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.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The test will be conducted at the Gurugram Academy, post-flight at Air India's flight briefing centres and offices, the airline said.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>"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.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>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.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><h2>How India tests pilots for alcohol and drugs, what happens after a positive result?</h2><p>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.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>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.</p><p>India has separate but complementary rules covering alcohol and psychoactive substances.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>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.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>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.</p>

 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.

<p>&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.</p>

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

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<p>The last day of the monsoon session was marked by pandemonium and intense political friction after Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge said that a purification ceremony, or “shuddhikaran”, was reportedly held at Haldwani’s Ramlila Ground after the Congress president addressed a rally there on August 8. The ritual was held by the far-right outfit Shri Ram Sena, which had an alleged link to the BJP, according to Uttarakhand President Ganesh Godiyal.</p><p>Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge belongs to the Dalit community. A video circulating on social media showed a priest performing Havan because, as Kharge is Dalit, he supposedly defiled the place. In another video, one of the organisers, Girsh Chandra Pandey, seemed to be saying that the place holds religious importance and that Kharge had raised slogans which sounded like “Islamic slogans”. Kharge reportedly rejected the existence of Ram, so he is an anti-Hindu man.</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/spain-morocco-ceuta-melilla-sovereignty-dispute-1786558460622"><strong>Spain rejects Morocco’s Ceuta, Melilla claims: ‘Super-Spanish and cannot be touched’</strong></a></p><p>"There were lakhs of people present at the time. I did not name any community or religion. I only spoke about the problems faced by the people there. But after my speech, BJP workers performed a havan," said Kharge. “Is this the way in a democracy? How are you protecting the Constitution? I am the LoP... I never wanted to politicise these issues.”&nbsp;</p><p>BJP President JP Nadda called it an "unfortunate" incident and claimed that the party does not subscribe to these activities. “We in BJP do not endorse such acts. We do not know who was behind this. But we will find it out,” said Nadda before the house was adjourned on Thursday.&nbsp;</p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Give me a single reason why Dalits should not reject Hinduism. Convert ASAP.<br><br>Mallikarjun Kharge is the president of Congress and has been MP, MLA, and minister many times, but his crime is that he is a Dalit.<br><br>Hindutva group did &quot;PURIFICATION RITUAL&quot; after he held a meeting in… <a href="https://t.co/B1KQwiUzG9">pic.twitter.com/B1KQwiUzG9</a></p>&mdash; Suraj Kumar Bauddh (@SurajKrBauddh) <a href="https://x.com/SurajKrBauddh/status/2087554018889683410?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 12, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

A political row erupted after a ‘shuddhikaran’ ceremony was reportedly held at Haldwani’s Ramlila Ground following Mallikarjun Kharge’s rally, drawing condemnation from Congress and BJP.

The last day of the monsoon session was marked by pandemonium and intense political friction after Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge said that a purification ceremony, or “shuddhikaran”, was reportedly held at Haldwani’s Ramlila Ground after the Congress president addressed a rally there on August 8. The ritual was held by the far-right outfit Shri Ram Sena, which had an alleged link to the BJP, according to Uttarakhand President Ganesh Godiyal. Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge belongs to the Dalit community. A video circulating on social media showed a priest performing Havan because, as Kharge is Dalit, he supposedly defiled the place. In another video, one of the organisers, Girsh Chandra Pandey, seemed to be saying that the place holds religious importance and that Kharge had raised slogans which sounded like “Islamic slogans”. Kharge reportedly rejected the existence of Ram, so he is an anti-Hindu man. Also Read: Spain rejects Morocco’s Ceuta, Melilla claims: ‘Super-Spanish and cannot be touched’ "There were lakhs of people present at the time. I did not name any community or religion. I only spoke about the problems faced by the people there. But after my speech, BJP workers performed a havan," said Kharge. “Is this the way in a democracy? How are you protecting the Constitution? I am the LoP... I never wanted to politicise these issues.” BJP President JP Nadda called it an "unfortunate" incident and claimed that the party does not subscribe to these activities. “We in BJP do not endorse such acts. We do not know who was behind this. But we will find it out,” said Nadda before the house was adjourned on Thursday.

<p>A political row erupted after a ‘shuddhikaran’ ceremony was reportedly held at Haldwani’s Ramlila Ground following Mallikarjun Kharge’s rally, drawing condemnation from Congress and BJP.</p>

'Is this the way in a democracy?'- Row in parliament over 'shuddhikaran' in Haldwani following Kharge rally

<p>The Monsoon Session of Parliament began on Jul 20 and ended on Aug 13. Both houses of the Parliament was unable to function during the session as Opposition demanded answers from the Centre primarily over police brutality on students in New Delhi during Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) protest and donation theft in Ayodhya Ram Temple. As the session wrapped up on Aug 13, it may not be wrong to call it a complete washout, as key bills were passed without any debate, several bills were not tabled and question hour was not held.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/at-3pm-amit-shah-breaks-silence-over-statement-in-parliament-rahul-gandhi-rejects-lecture-debate-1786519136234">‘At 3pm today…’: Amit Shah offers Parliament debate on student protests</a></p><h2>What exactly happened during Monsoon Session of the Parliament?</h2><p>The severe disruptions, frequent adjournments, and heated confrontations between the government and the Opposition marked the Monsoon Session of Parliament in 2026. The main issues were examination paper leaks, student protests, and alleged irregularities in temple donations. Initially, chaos began on its opening day on Jul 20 as it coincided with the student's Parliament march as a part of CJP's protest demanding then Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation. The day ended with Delhi Police using force against the students to keep them away from the Parliament complex.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Opposition, since then, disrupted the House demanding Union Home Minister Amit Shah's statement over use of force including pellet guns on protesting students. The Opposition parties also pushed for urgent discussions on handling temple donations and valuables in Ayodhya Ram Temple. Repeated sloganeering and stalemates led to numerous adjournments in both the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha. The Lok Sabha clocked only 15 hours and 36 minutes of work in this session while the Rajya Sabha recorded 24 hours and 21 minutes of work over 15 days.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/what-did-the-indian-parliament-panel-ask-meta-google-x-and-snapchat-pm-modi-s-video-removal-cjp-protest-algorithm-manipulation-1785838498338">What did the Indian Parliament panel ask Meta, Google, X and Snapchat?</a></p><h2>How many bills was passed?</h2><p>A total of 12 new Bills were introduced in Parliament during the Monsoon Session of the Parliament. Of these, 10 were introduced in the Lok Sabha and 2 in the Rajya Sabha. None of the 12 Bills was referred to a Standing Committee. Of the Bills introduced, eight were passed by both Houses of Parliament: the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Amendment Bill, Prevention of Insults to National Honour (Amendment) Bill, Registration of Births and Deaths (Amendment) Bill, Supreme Court (Number of Judges) Amendment Bill, MSME Development (Amendment) Bill, Taxation and Other Laws (Amendment) Bill, Bankers’ Books Evidence Bill and Tribunals Reforms Bill. Two Bills were passed by only one House, both by the Lok Sabha. These were the Kerala (Alteration of Name) Bill and the National Co-operative Development Corporation (Amendment) Bill. The remaining two Bills had been introduced but were yet to be passed by either House. These were the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Amendment Bill and the Indian Statistical Institute Bill.</p><h2>No question hour</h2><p>The loss of question Hour means the Members did not get an opportunity to ask questions. The loss of Question Hour means MPs lose their primary, rule-based opportunity to question ministers directly, seek crucial data and hold the government accountable for its decisions and governance. Held from 11 am to noon in both Houses, Question Hour allows oral queries and supplementary questions while promoting transparency by bringing important facts and financial details into public debate.</p><h2>Key bills missing&nbsp;</h2><p>The key legislations missing from the final legislative agenda of the ongoing Monsoon Session are The Constitution (Amendment) Bill for Women’s Reservation and Delimitation and The Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Amendment Bill (FCRA), 2026. The Women's Reservation and Delimitation Bill aimed to implement a 33 per cent legislative quota for women by 2029 alongside an expansion of Lok Sabha house strength. It failed to clear the House in April 2026 because it could not secure the mandatory two-thirds majority. The government still lacks the necessary numbers to push it through amid the current impasse.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Amendment Bill (FCRA), 2026 is designed to tighten regulations on foreign funding received by non-governmental organisations (NGOs). It has faced intense pushback from the Congress and its major allies, who have labeled the bill "unconstitutional" and alleged that it targets minority organisations.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

The Monsoon Session of Parliament began on July 20 and is scheduled to conclude on August 13, 2026. The session was marked by repeated disruptions, adjournments and heated exchanges between the government and the Opposition.

The Monsoon Session of Parliament began on Jul 20 and ended on Aug 13. Both houses of the Parliament was unable to function during the session as Opposition demanded answers from the Centre primarily over police brutality on students in New Delhi during Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) protest and donation theft in Ayodhya Ram Temple. As the session wrapped up on Aug 13, it may not be wrong to call it a complete washout, as key bills were passed without any debate, several bills were not tabled and question hour was not held. Also Read: ‘At 3pm today…’: Amit Shah offers Parliament debate on student protests What exactly happened during Monsoon Session of the Parliament? The severe disruptions, frequent adjournments, and heated confrontations between the government and the Opposition marked the Monsoon Session of Parliament in 2026. The main issues were examination paper leaks, student protests, and alleged irregularities in temple donations. Initially, chaos began on its opening day on Jul 20 as it coincided with the student's Parliament march as a part of CJP's protest demanding then Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation. The day ended with Delhi Police using force against the students to keep them away from the Parliament complex. Opposition, since then, disrupted the House demanding Union Home Minister Amit Shah's statement over use of force including pellet guns on protesting students. The Opposition parties also pushed for urgent discussions on handling temple donations and valuables in Ayodhya Ram Temple. Repeated sloganeering and stalemates led to numerous adjournments in both the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha. The Lok Sabha clocked only 15 hours and 36 minutes of work in this session while the Rajya Sabha recorded 24 hours and 21 minutes of work over 15 days. Also Read: What did the Indian Parliament panel ask Meta, Google, X and Snapchat? How many bills was passed? A total of 12 new Bills were introduced in Parliament during the Monsoon Session of the Parliament. Of these, 10 were introduced in the Lok Sabha and 2 in the Rajya Sabha. None of the 12 Bills was referred to a Standing Committee. Of the Bills introduced, eight were passed by both Houses of Parliament: the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Amendment Bill, Prevention of Insults to National Honour (Amendment) Bill, Registration of Births and Deaths (Amendment) Bill, Supreme Court (Number of Judges) Amendment Bill, MSME Development (Amendment) Bill, Taxation and Other Laws (Amendment) Bill, Bankers’ Books Evidence Bill and Tribunals Reforms Bill. Two Bills were passed by only one House, both by the Lok Sabha. These were the Kerala (Alteration of Name) Bill and the National Co-operative Development Corporation (Amendment) Bill. The remaining two Bills had been introduced but were yet to be passed by either House. These were the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Amendment Bill and the Indian Statistical Institute Bill. No question hour The loss of question Hour means the Members did not get an opportunity to ask questions. The loss of Question Hour means MPs lose their primary, rule-based opportunity to question ministers directly, seek crucial data and hold the government accountable for its decisions and governance. Held from 11 am to noon in both Houses, Question Hour allows oral queries and supplementary questions while promoting transparency by bringing important facts and financial details into public debate. Key bills missing The key legislations missing from the final legislative agenda of the ongoing Monsoon Session are The Constitution (Amendment) Bill for Women’s Reservation and Delimitation and The Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Amendment Bill (FCRA), 2026. The Women's Reservation and Delimitation Bill aimed to implement a 33 per cent legislative quota for women by 2029 alongside an expansion of Lok Sabha house strength. It failed to clear the House in April 2026 because it could not secure the mandatory two-thirds majority. The government still lacks the necessary numbers to push it through amid the current impasse. The Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Amendment Bill (FCRA), 2026 is designed to tighten regulations on foreign funding received by non-governmental organisations (NGOs). It has faced intense pushback from the Congress and its major allies, who have labeled the bill "unconstitutional" and alleged that it targets minority organisations.

<p>The Monsoon Session of Parliament began on July 20 and is scheduled to conclude on August 13, 2026. The session was marked by repeated disruptions, adjournments and heated exchanges between the government and the Opposition.</p>

How many Bills were passed in Monsoon Session of Parliament

<p>Shiromani Akali Dal chief and former Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Sukhbir Singh Badal was allegedly attacked by a Nihang with a kirpan, inside a gurdwara in the Mata Sahib Kaur area of Nanded, Maharashtra, on Thursday (Aug 13). The incident took place around 11 am, shortly after Badal arrived in Nanded from Punjab. He was on a personal visit and had been provided Z-plus security as per the scheduled security arrangements. He has been rushed to the hospital. Inspector Santosh Kendre, who was deployed as part of Badal's security detail, was also attacked and suffered minor injuries while trying to protect him. The attacker was detained by police shortly after the incident.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Shiromani Akali Dal chief and former Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Sukhbir Singh Badal was attacked by a Nihang Sikh inside a gurdwara in Nanded, Maharashtra and has been rushed to hospital with injuries to his hand<a href="https://x.com/hashtag/shiromaniakalidal?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#shiromaniakalidal</a> <a href="https://x.com/hashtag/sukhbirsinghbadal?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#sukhbirsinghbadal</a> <a href="https://x.com/hashtag/formerdeputycm?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#formerdeputycm</a> <a href="https://x.com/hashtag/nanded?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#nanded</a>… <a href="https://t.co/ogSxH4fPLN">pic.twitter.com/ogSxH4fPLN</a></p>&mdash; WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://x.com/WIONews/status/2087851050103624181?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 13, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<p> </p><p> </p><p> </p><p>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/akali-bjp-alliance-on-cards-sukhbir-badal-backs-delimitation-day-after-meeting-pm-modi-1786193630490">Akali-BJP alliance on cards? Sukhbir Badal backs delimitation day after meeting PM Modi</a></p><p> </p><p>According to preliminary information, he has suffered injuries on his arm and shoulder, possibly from a sword. A video after the attacked showed Badal walking with a saffron cloth wrapped on his right hand. He was shifted to the nearby Yashosai Hospital. The gurdwara is controlled by a Nihang samparday and is not managed by the board that oversees the main Nanded Sahib gurdwara. </p><p> </p><p>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/modi-sukhbir-badal-meeting-bjp-sad-alliance-punjab-2027-1786101731538">PM Modi meets Sukhbir Badal, fuels talk of BJP-SAD reunion in Punjab</a></p><p> </p><p>This is not the first attack on Badal. On December 4, 2024, Sukhbir Singh Badal survived an assassination attempt outside the Golden Temple in Amritsar. He was unharmed, and the gunman was quickly overpowered and arrested on the spot. Badal was attacked at the Golden Temple while he was performing 'sewadar' duties after the Akal Takht pronounced the 'tankhah' (religious punishment) for him and several other Akali Dal leaders for "mistakes" committed during the party's rule in Punjab from 2007 to 2017.</p><p> </p><p>After the attack, BJP spokesperson RP Singh condemned the attack, calling the incident “completely unacceptable” and saying that violence has no place in a democratic society. “Punjab and the Punjabi community have already suffered immensely during the dark and painful years of violence and militancy. Generations of Punjabis have borne the deep scars left by that period. We cannot, under any circumstances, allow those dark days to return. Peace, brotherhood, constitutional values and the rule of law must always prevail. I pray for the good health, safety and speedy recovery of S Sukhbir Singh Badal Ji.”</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2026/20260813/image-1786614919187.png"></figure>

<p> </p><p> </p><p>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/akali-bjp-alliance-on-cards-sukhbir-badal-backs-delimitation-day-after-meeting-pm-modi-1786193630490">Akali-BJP alliance on cards? Sukhbir Badal backs delimitation day after meeting PM Modi</a></p><p> </p><p>According to preliminary information, he has suffered injuries on his arm and shoulder, possibly from a sword. A video after the attacked showed Badal walking with a saffron cloth wrapped on his right hand. He was shifted to the nearby Yashosai Hospital. The gurdwara is controlled by a Nihang samparday and is not managed by the board that oversees the main Nanded Sahib gurdwara. </p><p> </p><p>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/modi-sukhbir-badal-meeting-bjp-sad-alliance-punjab-2027-1786101731538">PM Modi meets Sukhbir Badal, fuels talk of BJP-SAD reunion in Punjab</a></p><p> </p><p>This is not the first attack on Badal. On December 4, 2024, Sukhbir Singh Badal survived an assassination attempt outside the Golden Temple in Amritsar. He was unharmed, and the gunman was quickly overpowered and arrested on the spot. Badal was attacked at the Golden Temple while he was performing 'sewadar' duties after the Akal Takht pronounced the 'tankhah' (religious punishment) for him and several other Akali Dal leaders for "mistakes" committed during the party's rule in Punjab from 2007 to 2017.</p><p> </p><p>After the attack, BJP spokesperson RP Singh condemned the attack, calling the incident “completely unacceptable” and saying that violence has no place in a democratic society. “Punjab and the Punjabi community have already suffered immensely during the dark and painful years of violence and militancy. Generations of Punjabis have borne the deep scars left by that period. We cannot, under any circumstances, allow those dark days to return. Peace, brotherhood, constitutional values and the rule of law must always prevail. I pray for the good health, safety and speedy recovery of S Sukhbir Singh Badal Ji.”</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2026/20260813/image-1786614919187.png"></figure>

Shiromani Akali Dal chief Sukhbir Singh Badal was attacked by a Nihang with a sharp weapon, reportedly a kirpan, inside a gurdwara in Nanded, Maharashtra. The incident occurred around 11 am shortly after Badal arrived from Punjab for a personal visit.

Shiromani Akali Dal chief and former Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Sukhbir Singh Badal was allegedly attacked by a Nihang with a kirpan, inside a gurdwara in the Mata Sahib Kaur area of Nanded, Maharashtra, on Thursday (Aug 13). The incident took place around 11 am, shortly after Badal arrived in Nanded from Punjab. He was on a personal visit and had been provided Z-plus security as per the scheduled security arrangements. He has been rushed to the hospital. Inspector Santosh Kendre, who was deployed as part of Badal's security detail, was also attacked and suffered minor injuries while trying to protect him. The attacker was detained by police shortly after the incident.

<p>Shiromani Akali Dal chief Sukhbir Singh Badal was attacked by a Nihang with a sharp weapon, reportedly a kirpan, inside a gurdwara in Nanded, Maharashtra. The incident occurred around 11 am shortly after Badal arrived from Punjab for a personal visit.</p>

SAD chief Sukhbir Singh Badal attacked with kirpan in Maharashtra, rushed to hospital

India at 80: The cost of everyday essentials has changed dramatically since 1947. Here is a look at what Indians paid for milk, rice, wheat, petrol, travel, and more back when the country gained independence compared with 2026.

1947 vs 2026: Shocking increase in price of everyday essentials in India

<p>N Chandrasekaran has stepped down as chairman of Tata Sons. He ended his nearly decade-long tenure at the helm of the Tata Group, informing the Tata Sons board of his decision on Wednesday (August 12) and stating that he would not seek an extension when his current term ends in February 2027.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Chandrasekaran took over as executive chairman of Tata Sons on February 21, 2017, following three decades at Tata Consultancy Services, where he had served as chief executive and managing director since 2009. Later, he was reappointed for a second five-year term in 2022.</p><p><br>During his tenure, the Tata Group made some of its most significant strategic moves, including the acquisition of Air India and its expansion into semiconductors, electronics, electric vehicles, batteries, and digital businesses. Chandrasekaran explained that his decision was prompted by the absence of unanimous support for extending his term by another five years.</p><p><br>According to his statement, both the Sir Dorabji Tata Trust and Sir Ratan Tata Trust had unanimously agreed to recommend extending his tenure for five years. The recommendation was also noted by the Tata Sons Nomination and Remuneration Committee and the board.</p><p><br>The proposal was presented to the Tata Sons board on February 24, 2026, but did not go through, as one board member opposed the extension, Chandrasekaran said. Given the lack of unanimous backing, he decided to defer the matter. He added that although six months had passed since that board meeting, the issue remained unresolved.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also read:</strong> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/new-dating-scam-x-user-claim-tinder-bumble-matches-in-bengaluru-targeted-with-cab-payment-fraud-1786603370312">New dating scam? X user claims Tinder, Bumble matches in Bengaluru targeted with cab-payment fraud</a></p><h3>N Chandrasekaran earning as Tata Sons chairman</h3><p>Tata Sons' FY26 annual report indicates that N Chandrasekaran has received Rs 158.66 crore in total remuneration, up from Rs 155.81 crore in FY25. The data shows that this remuneration was his highest annual since Tata Sons started disclosing executive compensation in FY22.</p><p><br>His remuneration for FY26 included Rs 17.97 crore in salary and other benefits, along with Rs 140.69 crore in profit-linked commission, with the commission making up nearly 89 per cent of his total earnings. Across the five financial years from FY22 to FY26, Chandrasekaran's cumulative remuneration from Tata Sons stood at Rs 671.4 crore, based on the company's disclosed annual figures. Throughout his tenure, he has ranked among India's highest-paid corporate executives, with his pay reflecting the profit-linked structure of his compensation at Tata Sons.</p><h3>N Chandrasekaran's journey to chairman</h3><p>Chandrasekaran was born in 1963 in the Namakkal district of Tamil Nadu. He began his journey with the Tata Group as an intern at TCS in 1987, later he rose through the ranks to become CEO and then led TCS to global prominence before taking over Tata Sons in 2017.</p><p><br>Under his leadership, the Tata Group expanded into aviation, semiconductors, electric vehicles, and manufacturing, while also significantly strengthening its financial standing. Tata Sons' net worth grew from Rs 45,586 crore in FY20 to approximately Rs 1.49 lakh crore in FY25. As his tenure draws to a close, Chandrasekaran leaves behind a legacy marked by major corporate expansion and robust financial growth, even though his own personal net worth remains undisclosed.<br>&nbsp;</p>

During his tenure, the Tata Group made some of its most significant strategic moves, including the acquisition of Air India and its expansion into semiconductors, electronics, electric vehicles, batteries, and digital businesses.

N Chandrasekaran has stepped down as chairman of Tata Sons. He ended his nearly decade-long tenure at the helm of the Tata Group, informing the Tata Sons board of his decision on Wednesday (August 12) and stating that he would not seek an extension when his current term ends in February 2027. Chandrasekaran took over as executive chairman of Tata Sons on February 21, 2017, following three decades at Tata Consultancy Services, where he had served as chief executive and managing director since 2009. Later, he was reappointed for a second five-year term in 2022. During his tenure, the Tata Group made some of its most significant strategic moves, including the acquisition of Air India and its expansion into semiconductors, electronics, electric vehicles, batteries, and digital businesses. Chandrasekaran explained that his decision was prompted by the absence of unanimous support for extending his term by another five years. According to his statement, both the Sir Dorabji Tata Trust and Sir Ratan Tata Trust had unanimously agreed to recommend extending his tenure for five years. The recommendation was also noted by the Tata Sons Nomination and Remuneration Committee and the board. The proposal was presented to the Tata Sons board on February 24, 2026, but did not go through, as one board member opposed the extension, Chandrasekaran said. Given the lack of unanimous backing, he decided to defer the matter. He added that although six months had passed since that board meeting, the issue remained unresolved. Also read: New dating scam? X user claims Tinder, Bumble matches in Bengaluru targeted with cab-payment fraud N Chandrasekaran earning as Tata Sons chairman Tata Sons' FY26 annual report indicates that N Chandrasekaran has received Rs 158.66 crore in total remuneration, up from Rs 155.81 crore in FY25. The data shows that this remuneration was his highest annual since Tata Sons started disclosing executive compensation in FY22. His remuneration for FY26 included Rs 17.97 crore in salary and other benefits, along with Rs 140.69 crore in profit-linked commission, with the commission making up nearly 89 per cent of his total earnings. Across the five financial years from FY22 to FY26, Chandrasekaran's cumulative remuneration from Tata Sons stood at Rs 671.4 crore, based on the company's disclosed annual figures. Throughout his tenure, he has ranked among India's highest-paid corporate executives, with his pay reflecting the profit-linked structure of his compensation at Tata Sons. N Chandrasekaran's journey to chairman Chandrasekaran was born in 1963 in the Namakkal district of Tamil Nadu. He began his journey with the Tata Group as an intern at TCS in 1987, later he rose through the ranks to become CEO and then led TCS to global prominence before taking over Tata Sons in 2017. Under his leadership, the Tata Group expanded into aviation, semiconductors, electric vehicles, and manufacturing, while also significantly strengthening its financial standing. Tata Sons' net worth grew from Rs 45,586 crore in FY20 to approximately Rs 1.49 lakh crore in FY25. As his tenure draws to a close, Chandrasekaran leaves behind a legacy marked by major corporate expansion and robust financial growth, even though his own personal net worth remains undisclosed.

<p>During his tenure, the Tata Group made some of its most significant strategic moves, including the acquisition of Air India and its expansion into semiconductors, electronics, electric vehicles, batteries, and digital businesses.</p>

Tata Sons Chairman N Chandrasekaran announces exit: Know his net worth and salary

<p>The Tamil Nadu Government, led by Chief Minister Joseph Vijay, announced that it inked 97 investment Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with a cumulative potential value of Rs 67,542 crores and the potential to generate over 100,000 jobs. These MoUs span sectors such as automotive, renewables, life sciences, electronics, R&amp;D, data centres, footwear manufacturing, and space technology, among others. Hosted in Chennai, the event titled 'Vettri (Victory) Tamil Nadu Investment Conclave 2026' is the first such investment-related initiative by the TVK-led coalition government, which completed three months at the helm of the Southern Indian state.</p><p>Speaking at the event presided over by Chief Minister Vijay, Industries Minister Keerthana said that their government does not take investors' trust and faith in Tamil Nadu lightly. "Before you sign an MoU, you look at the numbers, evaluate the risk, compare us against other states, countries and decide that Tamil Nadu is where you want to put your capital... If you have trusted us with your capital, we have an obligation to make sure that capital moves quickly, productively and predictably," she said, highlighting that the Chief Minister had envisioned a $1.5 trillion Tamil Nadu state economy by 2036.</p><p>Citing the cumulative investment MoUs inked during the first 100days of their Government, Minister Keerthana said that the commitments exceeded Rs 1 lakh crore ($10.5 bn) and that they had the potential to generate over 1.2 lakh jobs. She added that the new Government had inked MoUs with companies, built partnerships with foreign institutions, inaugurated Global Capability Centres, and the Chief Minister laid the foundation stone for a footwear manufacturing project in Karur.</p><h2><strong>Notable investment MoUs</strong></h2><p>Australia-based Avid Group has proposed to invest in various sectors including urban infrastructure, tourism, healthcare, and mining equipment manufacturing in Tamil Nadu over the next five years. In the first phase, it is said that the firm would invest Rs.7,000 crore and create direct and indirect employment for over 12,000 individuals.</p><p>JK Tyres would be expanding its tyre manufacturing facility in Kanchipuram district with an investment commitment of Rs 5,143 crore and a potential employment opportunity for over 3,500 individuals.</p><p>German firm Daimler, which manufactures commercial vehicles at its facility at Kanchipuram, is set to upgrade its 400-acre manufacturing facility to undertake design and R&amp;D of commercial vehicles. This MoU in this regard was inked with a stated potential investment of Rs 4,000 crores and the potential to generate 400 jobs.</p><p>Japanese firm YKK, which is a leading manufacturer of zippers and fasteners, has committed to set up a manufacturing unit in Tiruvallur. The investment commitment is for Rs 1,651 crores, and the project has the potential to generate over 4,300 jobs.</p><p>Electric two-wheeler maker Ultraviolette has committed to set up a plant for electric two-wheelers in Krishnagiri district, with an investment commitment of Rs 779 crores and the potential to create 4,000 jobs.</p><p>German firm BITZER, a leading manufacturer of compressors for Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning(HVAC), has inked an MoU to set up its first HVAC compressor manufacturing unit in Kanchipuram, with an investment commitment of Rs 300 crore.</p>

Citing the cumulative investment MoUs inked during the first 100days of their Government, Minister Keerthana said that the commitments exceeded Rs 1 lakh crore ($10.5 bn) and that they had the potential to generate over 1.2 lakh jobs. 

The Tamil Nadu Government, led by Chief Minister Joseph Vijay, announced that it inked 97 investment Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with a cumulative potential value of Rs 67,542 crores and the potential to generate over 100,000 jobs. These MoUs span sectors such as automotive, renewables, life sciences, electronics, R&D, data centres, footwear manufacturing, and space technology, among others. Hosted in Chennai, the event titled 'Vettri (Victory) Tamil Nadu Investment Conclave 2026' is the first such investment-related initiative by the TVK-led coalition government, which completed three months at the helm of the Southern Indian state. Speaking at the event presided over by Chief Minister Vijay, Industries Minister Keerthana said that their government does not take investors' trust and faith in Tamil Nadu lightly. "Before you sign an MoU, you look at the numbers, evaluate the risk, compare us against other states, countries and decide that Tamil Nadu is where you want to put your capital... If you have trusted us with your capital, we have an obligation to make sure that capital moves quickly, productively and predictably," she said, highlighting that the Chief Minister had envisioned a $1.5 trillion Tamil Nadu state economy by 2036. Citing the cumulative investment MoUs inked during the first 100days of their Government, Minister Keerthana said that the commitments exceeded Rs 1 lakh crore ($10.5 bn) and that they had the potential to generate over 1.2 lakh jobs. She added that the new Government had inked MoUs with companies, built partnerships with foreign institutions, inaugurated Global Capability Centres, and the Chief Minister laid the foundation stone for a footwear manufacturing project in Karur. Notable investment MoUs Australia-based Avid Group has proposed to invest in various sectors including urban infrastructure, tourism, healthcare, and mining equipment manufacturing in Tamil Nadu over the next five years. In the first phase, it is said that the firm would invest Rs.7,000 crore and create direct and indirect employment for over 12,000 individuals. JK Tyres would be expanding its tyre manufacturing facility in Kanchipuram district with an investment commitment of Rs 5,143 crore and a potential employment opportunity for over 3,500 individuals. German firm Daimler, which manufactures commercial vehicles at its facility at Kanchipuram, is set to upgrade its 400-acre manufacturing facility to undertake design and R&D of commercial vehicles. This MoU in this regard was inked with a stated potential investment of Rs 4,000 crores and the potential to generate 400 jobs. Japanese firm YKK, which is a leading manufacturer of zippers and fasteners, has committed to set up a manufacturing unit in Tiruvallur. The investment commitment is for Rs 1,651 crores, and the project has the potential to generate over 4,300 jobs. Electric two-wheeler maker Ultraviolette has committed to set up a plant for electric two-wheelers in Krishnagiri district, with an investment commitment of Rs 779 crores and the potential to create 4,000 jobs. German firm BITZER, a leading manufacturer of compressors for Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning(HVAC), has inked an MoU to set up its first HVAC compressor manufacturing unit in Kanchipuram, with an investment commitment of Rs 300 crore.

<p>Citing the cumulative investment MoUs inked during the first 100days of their Government, Minister Keerthana said that the commitments exceeded Rs 1 lakh crore ($10.5 bn) and that they had the potential to generate over 1.2 lakh jobs.&nbsp;</p>

Tamil Nadu: Vijay Govt inks MoUs for potential investment of $7 bn, 100K jobs

<p>Union Minister Nitin Gadkari's 46 kg weight-loss transformation is making headlines. In an old interview which has now gone viral, Gadkari said that he focused on routine and discipline to achieve results. In a YouTube video dated January 2, which Farah Khan shared on her channel, the BJP minister revealed that he has never compromised with exercise after COVID-19 and expanded on the role exercise now plays in his life.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bombay-hc-allows-nitin-gadkari-to-sue-meta-google-x-over-alleged-deepfake-content-linked-to-e20-fuel-row-1785147169028">Bombay HC allows Nitin Gadkari to sue Meta, Google, X over alleged deepfake content linked to E20 fuel row</a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>In an interview with Bollywood director Farah Khan, the union minister talked about how he lost 46 kilograms after COVID. He described the change not as cosmetic but existential. He had also confessed in an old interview that at the time that the pandemic had forced him to take a serious look at his health and make changes. He said, “It’s 9:30 pm now, and after meeting with you, I have appointments till 1 am. Then I will wake up at 7 am and do exercise for two and a half hours. I used to be 135 kg at one point, and now I weigh 89 kg. You can see the positive effects of this routine on my face.”</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>He also pointed to the visible changes he has experienced since adopting the routine. His comments highlight how exercise has become a consistent part of his lifestyle rather than a temporary measure taken specifically for weight loss. He said that the death of his close ones became a turning point that permanently altered his routine and outlook, making weight loss secondary and taking care of his general wellbeing more important.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-green-hydrogen-drone-taxis-road-safety-nitin-gadkari-outlines-india-s-transport-future-vision-at-wion-world-pulse-1773846136123">'Green hydrogen, water taxis and road safety': Nitin Gadkari outlines India’s transport future at WION World Pulse summit</a></p><p><br>Gadkari has also spoken openly about his earlier lifestyle. "I had a very unplanned, undisciplined life," he said, describing how his approach to health changed over time. According to him, exercise is now non-negotiable, and he spends two to two and a half hours exercising every day. The change did not happen simply because he wanted to lose weight. Instead, he said his priorities shifted after the COVID pandemic and the personal losses he experienced during that period.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“I had a very unplanned, undisciplined life,” he said, noting that exercise is now non-negotiable. “Now I exercise for two to two-and-a-half hours daily.” The shift came after a personal loss in his life. He explained, "During COVID, my friends who were with me passed away. Then I felt I had to change. Health is wealth.”</p>

Union Minister Nitin Gadkari has revealed how discipline and regular exercise helped him lose 46 kg, from 135 kg to 89 kg. He credits the COVID-19 pandemic and personal losses with changing his approach to health, making exercise a non-negotiable part of his daily routine.

Union Minister Nitin Gadkari's 46 kg weight-loss transformation is making headlines. In an old interview which has now gone viral, Gadkari said that he focused on routine and discipline to achieve results. In a YouTube video dated January 2, which Farah Khan shared on her channel, the BJP minister revealed that he has never compromised with exercise after COVID-19 and expanded on the role exercise now plays in his life. Also Read: Bombay HC allows Nitin Gadkari to sue Meta, Google, X over alleged deepfake content linked to E20 fuel row In an interview with Bollywood director Farah Khan, the union minister talked about how he lost 46 kilograms after COVID. He described the change not as cosmetic but existential. He had also confessed in an old interview that at the time that the pandemic had forced him to take a serious look at his health and make changes. He said, “It’s 9:30 pm now, and after meeting with you, I have appointments till 1 am. Then I will wake up at 7 am and do exercise for two and a half hours. I used to be 135 kg at one point, and now I weigh 89 kg. You can see the positive effects of this routine on my face.” He also pointed to the visible changes he has experienced since adopting the routine. His comments highlight how exercise has become a consistent part of his lifestyle rather than a temporary measure taken specifically for weight loss. He said that the death of his close ones became a turning point that permanently altered his routine and outlook, making weight loss secondary and taking care of his general wellbeing more important. Also Read: 'Green hydrogen, water taxis and road safety': Nitin Gadkari outlines India’s transport future at WION World Pulse summit Gadkari has also spoken openly about his earlier lifestyle. "I had a very unplanned, undisciplined life," he said, describing how his approach to health changed over time. According to him, exercise is now non-negotiable, and he spends two to two and a half hours exercising every day. The change did not happen simply because he wanted to lose weight. Instead, he said his priorities shifted after the COVID pandemic and the personal losses he experienced during that period. “I had a very unplanned, undisciplined life,” he said, noting that exercise is now non-negotiable. “Now I exercise for two to two-and-a-half hours daily.” The shift came after a personal loss in his life. He explained, "During COVID, my friends who were with me passed away. Then I felt I had to change. Health is wealth.”

<p>Union Minister Nitin Gadkari has revealed how discipline and regular exercise helped him lose 46 kg, from 135 kg to 89 kg. He credits the COVID-19 pandemic and personal losses with changing his approach to health, making exercise a non-negotiable part of his daily routine.</p>

'During COVID...': Nitin Gadkari shares how he transformed from 135 kg to 89 kg

<p>The Kashmir Valley is in the final stages of intense preparations for the upcoming Independence Day celebrations, set against a backdrop of heavily fortified security measures made to ensure peace across the Union Territory. A full-dress rehearsal unfolded at Srinagar’s iconic Bakshi Stadium, serving as the centerpiece of the valley's pre-celebration events. The stadium was fully transformed with national flags hoisted across the venue as senior officials, including Kashmir Divisional Commissioner Anshul Garg and Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kashmir VK Birdi, inspected the proceedings.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2026/20260813/image-1786609186139.jpeg"></figure><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/heavy-rain-forecast-for-jammu-and-kashmir-flash-flood-and-landslide-risk-warned-1786600805379">Heavy rain forecast for Jammu and Kashmir, flash flood and landslide risk</a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Thousands of school students infused vibrant energy into the dress rehearsal through diverse cultural performances and patriotic skits, while disciplined contingents of security forces participated in a synchronized march-past to signal total operational readiness.</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2026/20260813/image-1786609199163.jpeg"></figure><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/j-k-police-probe-into-killing-of-kashmiri-pandit-father-son-duo-1786593655734">J&amp;K police probe into killing of Kashmiri Pandit father-son duo</a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>While the spirit of celebration takes center stage, security remains the administration's topmost priority. In light of intelligence inputs warning of potential terror threats aimed at disturbing the peace, authorities have thrown a multi-tier security blanket across the Valley. Special emphasis has been placed on securing venues hosting the primary Independence Day functions, with heightened surveillance, strategic checkpoints, and intensified patrols deployed to guarantee a safe environment for all attendees.</p>

Kashmir Valley steps up preparations for Independence Day with a full-dress rehearsal at Srinagar’s Bakshi Stadium. Thousands of students performed patriotic programmes as security forces conducted a march-past amid heightened security and terror threat alerts.

The Kashmir Valley is in the final stages of intense preparations for the upcoming Independence Day celebrations, set against a backdrop of heavily fortified security measures made to ensure peace across the Union Territory. A full-dress rehearsal unfolded at Srinagar’s iconic Bakshi Stadium, serving as the centerpiece of the valley's pre-celebration events. The stadium was fully transformed with national flags hoisted across the venue as senior officials, including Kashmir Divisional Commissioner Anshul Garg and Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kashmir VK Birdi, inspected the proceedings. Also Read: Heavy rain forecast for Jammu and Kashmir, flash flood and landslide risk Thousands of school students infused vibrant energy into the dress rehearsal through diverse cultural performances and patriotic skits, while disciplined contingents of security forces participated in a synchronized march-past to signal total operational readiness. Also Read: J&K police probe into killing of Kashmiri Pandit father-son duo While the spirit of celebration takes center stage, security remains the administration's topmost priority. In light of intelligence inputs warning of potential terror threats aimed at disturbing the peace, authorities have thrown a multi-tier security blanket across the Valley. Special emphasis has been placed on securing venues hosting the primary Independence Day functions, with heightened surveillance, strategic checkpoints, and intensified patrols deployed to guarantee a safe environment for all attendees.

<p>Kashmir Valley steps up preparations for Independence Day with a full-dress rehearsal at Srinagar’s Bakshi Stadium. Thousands of students performed patriotic programmes as security forces conducted a march-past amid heightened security and terror threat alerts.</p>

Full-dress rehearsal held at Srinagar’s Bakshi stadium ahead of Independence Day

<p>Seven labourers in Madhya Pradesh’s Panna district have struck fortune after discovering a 17.96-carat diamond. Officials have estimated that the stone could fetch at least Rs 50 lakh at a government auction scheduled for October. The diamond was found in a mine in Sarokha village that had been jointly leased by the seven men two years ago. The stone has been classified as “gem quality,” making it one of the finer varieties of natural diamonds found in the region.</p><p>Ravi Patel, an official with the Panna diamond office, described the stone as “precious” and said it would be put up for auction in the first half of October, when buyers from India and abroad are expected to participate.</p><p>The discovery is unusual because the labourers themselves hold the lease for the mining plot. In many cases, workers in Panna’s diamond mines are employed by lease-holders and do not receive the proceeds from major finds. In this case, after the government deducts a 12 per cent royalty, the remaining amount will be divided equally among the seven men.</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/air-india-pilot-fell-asleep-during-phuket-delhi-flight-here-s-what-we-know-1786593726749"><strong>Air India pilot who consumed marijuana fell asleep during Phuket-Delhi flight? Here’s what we know</strong></a></p><p>One of the lease-holders, Akhilesh Pal, said the group had almost given up on the mine after failing to find diamonds for nearly two years.</p><p>“We had been mining there for about two years,” he said, “but we had no luck, so we closed the mine for a year. We had started another mine right next to it.”</p><p>He said the diamond was found when they returned to inspect the abandoned pit after recent heavy rains.</p><p>“When we went there to inspect the new one, we also looked inside the old mine, and that’s where we found it - right on top,” Pal said.</p><p>Panna, which holds most of India’s diamond reserves, has long attracted fortune seekers despite widespread poverty, unemployment and water scarcity. According to reports, three of the labourers said that they had been unable to marry because of financial hardship. The diamond discovery could now dramatically alter their circumstances.</p>

Seven labourers in Madhya Pradesh’s Panna district found a 17.96-carat gem-quality diamond worth at least Rs 50 lakh in a jointly leased mine. The stone will be auctioned in October.

Seven labourers in Madhya Pradesh’s Panna district have struck fortune after discovering a 17.96-carat diamond. Officials have estimated that the stone could fetch at least Rs 50 lakh at a government auction scheduled for October. The diamond was found in a mine in Sarokha village that had been jointly leased by the seven men two years ago. The stone has been classified as “gem quality,” making it one of the finer varieties of natural diamonds found in the region. Ravi Patel, an official with the Panna diamond office, described the stone as “precious” and said it would be put up for auction in the first half of October, when buyers from India and abroad are expected to participate. The discovery is unusual because the labourers themselves hold the lease for the mining plot. In many cases, workers in Panna’s diamond mines are employed by lease-holders and do not receive the proceeds from major finds. In this case, after the government deducts a 12 per cent royalty, the remaining amount will be divided equally among the seven men. Also read | Air India pilot who consumed marijuana fell asleep during Phuket-Delhi flight? Here’s what we know One of the lease-holders, Akhilesh Pal, said the group had almost given up on the mine after failing to find diamonds for nearly two years. “We had been mining there for about two years,” he said, “but we had no luck, so we closed the mine for a year. We had started another mine right next to it.” He said the diamond was found when they returned to inspect the abandoned pit after recent heavy rains. “When we went there to inspect the new one, we also looked inside the old mine, and that’s where we found it - right on top,” Pal said. Panna, which holds most of India’s diamond reserves, has long attracted fortune seekers despite widespread poverty, unemployment and water scarcity. According to reports, three of the labourers said that they had been unable to marry because of financial hardship. The diamond discovery could now dramatically alter their circumstances.

<p>Seven labourers in Madhya Pradesh’s Panna district found a 17.96-carat gem-quality diamond worth at least Rs 50 lakh in a jointly leased mine. The stone will be auctioned in October.</p>

Seven labourers strike it rich after finding diamond worth Rs 50 lakh in Madhya Pradesh’s Panna

<p>Both Houses of the Parliament - the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha was adjourned sine die on Aug 13 - resulting in the Monsoon Session being a complete washout. Parliamentary affairs minister Kiren Rijiju addressed media after conclusion of Monsoon Session of Parliament. He said that it was not successful, adding that only 12 bills were passed. In the Lok Sabha, only 19 per cent productivity was achieved relative to the total time allotted and in the Rajya Sabha, productivity stood at 39 per cent. Rijiju also said that Opposition parties created a ruckus and staged walkouts, while the majority NDA parties and MPs from some opposition parties participated in the debates and discussions.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/how-many-bills-have-been-passed-in-monsoon-session-of-parliament-1786522779362">How many Bills have been passed in Monsoon Session of Parliament</a></p><h2>The last day of Monsoon Session&nbsp;</h2><p>The last day of the Monsoon Session of Parliament marked with ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Opposition INDIA bloc staging high-voltage counter-protests at the steps of Makar Dwar inside the Parliament complex. The BJP staged a protest at the Makar Dwar stairs within the Parliament against Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi over the Congress party's lack of acknowledgement regarding the ongoing protests in Jharkhand and police brutality against the students. The Congress and other Opposition parties also protested at the other end of Makar Dwar, and resorted to sloganeering, "56 inch ka chhota bandar, jaldi aao sadan ke andar." They questioned the government over the lack of accountability from the Government and police brutality on protesting students in New Delhi on Jul 20.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/the-verdict-parliamentary-disruptions-are-a-significant-financial-burden-on-taxpayers-1786558561219">The Verdict: Parliamentary disruptions are a significant financial burden on taxpayers</a></p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Delhi: Opposition MPs, led by Congress MP Pawan Khera, protest with a toy monkey and sloganeer, &#39;&#39;56-inch ka chhota bandar, jaldi aao sadan ke andar&#39;&#39;, on the Parliament premises<br><br>Source: ANI <a href="https://t.co/ecelJmZoRk">pic.twitter.com/ecelJmZoRk</a></p>&mdash; WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://x.com/WIONews/status/2087779639737586088?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 13, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>How many bills was passed?</h2><p>A total of 12 new Bills were introduced in Parliament during the Monsoon Session of the Parliament. Of these, 10 were introduced in the Lok Sabha and 2 in the Rajya Sabha. None of the 12 Bills was referred to a Standing Committee. Of the Bills introduced, eight were passed by both Houses of Parliament: the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Amendment Bill, Prevention of Insults to National Honour (Amendment) Bill, Registration of Births and Deaths (Amendment) Bill, Supreme Court (Number of Judges) Amendment Bill, MSME Development (Amendment) Bill, Taxation and Other Laws (Amendment) Bill, Bankers’ Books Evidence Bill and Tribunals Reforms Bill. Two Bills were passed by only one House, both by the Lok Sabha. These were the Kerala (Alteration of Name) Bill and the National Co-operative Development Corporation (Amendment) Bill. The remaining two Bills had been introduced but were yet to be passed by either House. These were the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Amendment Bill and the Indian Statistical Institute Bill.</p>

The Monsoon Session of Parliament has ended on Aug 13 as the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha was adjourned sine die. The session is being termed as a washout as total number of bills passed was 12 amid repeated interruption from Opposition and no statement by Home Minister Amit Shah

Both Houses of the Parliament - the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha was adjourned sine die on Aug 13 - resulting in the Monsoon Session being a complete washout. Parliamentary affairs minister Kiren Rijiju addressed media after conclusion of Monsoon Session of Parliament. He said that it was not successful, adding that only 12 bills were passed. In the Lok Sabha, only 19 per cent productivity was achieved relative to the total time allotted and in the Rajya Sabha, productivity stood at 39 per cent. Rijiju also said that Opposition parties created a ruckus and staged walkouts, while the majority NDA parties and MPs from some opposition parties participated in the debates and discussions. Also Read: How many Bills have been passed in Monsoon Session of Parliament The last day of Monsoon Session The last day of the Monsoon Session of Parliament marked with ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Opposition INDIA bloc staging high-voltage counter-protests at the steps of Makar Dwar inside the Parliament complex. The BJP staged a protest at the Makar Dwar stairs within the Parliament against Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi over the Congress party's lack of acknowledgement regarding the ongoing protests in Jharkhand and police brutality against the students. The Congress and other Opposition parties also protested at the other end of Makar Dwar, and resorted to sloganeering, "56 inch ka chhota bandar, jaldi aao sadan ke andar." They questioned the government over the lack of accountability from the Government and police brutality on protesting students in New Delhi on Jul 20. Also Read: The Verdict: Parliamentary disruptions are a significant financial burden on taxpayers

<p>The Monsoon Session of Parliament has ended on Aug 13 as the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha was adjourned sine die. The session is being termed as a washout as total number of bills passed was 12 amid repeated interruption from Opposition and no statement by Home Minister Amit Shah</p>

'56 inch ka chhota bandar vs Jharkhand pe jawab do': Protest marks last day of Monsoon Session as it ends in washout

<p>Indians will celebrate 80th Independence Day on August 15 this year. On Independence Day, India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi will hoist the national flag at the Red Fort and address the nation from the ramparts of the fort. But, why does Prime Minister Modi hoist the National Flag on Independence Day and not the President.&nbsp;</p><p><br>When India gained independence on August 15, 1947, it was the Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, who hoisted the Tricolour at the Red Fort. This set the precedent, and every PM since then has followed the same practice. The Prime Minister is the head of the elected government, chosen by the people through democratic elections. Direct election is one of the bedrocks of democracy and that is why PM is the head of the government. Moreover, when India got its Independence on Aug 15, 1947, there was no President. It was only after India's Constitution came into effect in 1950, that the country had a President as a constitutional post.</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2026/20260813/image-1786602502151.jpg"></figure><p>(AFP images)</p><p>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/150-years-of-vande-mataram-red-fort-to-witness-historic-independence-day-celebration-1786471437777">150 years of Vande Mataram: Red Fort to witness historic Independence Day</a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Independence Day marks the end of British colonial rule. On Independence Day, the PM’s flag-hoisting reflects the authority of the people’s government taking charge of a free nation. The flag-hoisting by the PM is a symbolic act showing that political power now rests in the hands of the nation’s own leadership, not an appointed figurehead.&nbsp;</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2026/20260813/image-1786602490655.jpg"></figure><p>(AFP images)</p><p>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/not-just-india-5-other-nations-that-celebrate-independence-day-on-august-15-1786449636669">Not Just India: 5 other nations that celebrate Independence Day on August 15</a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>After hoisting the flag, the Prime Minister addresses the nation, reporting on the government’s achievements, challenges, and plans. The PM also underlines the aim and roadmap of the country for coming years. This makes the day directly tied to the functioning of the government rather than the ceremonial duties of the President. The President is the constitutional head of state, but largely performs ceremonial roles.&nbsp;</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2026/20260813/image-1786602516834.jpg"></figure><p>(AFP images)</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>On Republic Day, when the Constitution is celebrated, it is the President who hoists the flag at Kartavya Path, as that occasion represents the republic’s constitutional identity rather than the political leadership. The flag is already positioned at the top of the flagpole and is unfurled during the ceremony. The ceremony is followed by the Republic Day parade, which showcases India's cultural diversity, military strength and national achievements.</p>

Why does the Prime Minister hoist the Tricolour at the Red Fort on Independence Day while the President does so on Republic Day? The distinction reflects their constitutional roles and the significance of August 15, 1947, and January 26, 1950, in India’s history.

Indians will celebrate 80th Independence Day on August 15 this year. On Independence Day, India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi will hoist the national flag at the Red Fort and address the nation from the ramparts of the fort. But, why does Prime Minister Modi hoist the National Flag on Independence Day and not the President. When India gained independence on August 15, 1947, it was the Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, who hoisted the Tricolour at the Red Fort. This set the precedent, and every PM since then has followed the same practice. The Prime Minister is the head of the elected government, chosen by the people through democratic elections. Direct election is one of the bedrocks of democracy and that is why PM is the head of the government. Moreover, when India got its Independence on Aug 15, 1947, there was no President. It was only after India's Constitution came into effect in 1950, that the country had a President as a constitutional post. (AFP images) Also Read: 150 years of Vande Mataram: Red Fort to witness historic Independence Day Independence Day marks the end of British colonial rule. On Independence Day, the PM’s flag-hoisting reflects the authority of the people’s government taking charge of a free nation. The flag-hoisting by the PM is a symbolic act showing that political power now rests in the hands of the nation’s own leadership, not an appointed figurehead. (AFP images) Also Read: Not Just India: 5 other nations that celebrate Independence Day on August 15 After hoisting the flag, the Prime Minister addresses the nation, reporting on the government’s achievements, challenges, and plans. The PM also underlines the aim and roadmap of the country for coming years. This makes the day directly tied to the functioning of the government rather than the ceremonial duties of the President. The President is the constitutional head of state, but largely performs ceremonial roles. (AFP images) On Republic Day, when the Constitution is celebrated, it is the President who hoists the flag at Kartavya Path, as that occasion represents the republic’s constitutional identity rather than the political leadership. The flag is already positioned at the top of the flagpole and is unfurled during the ceremony. The ceremony is followed by the Republic Day parade, which showcases India's cultural diversity, military strength and national achievements.

<p>Why does the Prime Minister hoist the Tricolour at the Red Fort on Independence Day while the President does so on Republic Day? The distinction reflects their constitutional roles and the significance of August 15, 1947, and January 26, 1950, in India’s history.</p>

Why Indian PM hoists the Tricolour on Independence Day while President does so on Republic Day

<p>The Meteorological Centre Srinagar has issued a weather advisory for Jammu and Kashmir, warning of spells of heavy to torrential rain and brief intense showers in parts of the Union Territory over the coming days. The weather conditions could trigger flash floods, landslides and mudslides in vulnerable areas. According to the latest forecast, August 16 to 19 could bring several spells of light to moderate rain and thundershowers across many places, with heavy rain and brief intense heavy showers likely in a few districts during the early morning and afternoon hours.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The Meteorological Centre has specifically warned of the possibility of heavy rain and brief intense heavy showers in a few districts of the Jammu division, while one or two districts of the Kashmir division may also experience brief intense showers.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The department cautioned that torrential rain and intense showers could generate flash floods, landslides and mudslides, particularly in vulnerable and hilly areas. For August 12, the weather department had forecast light to moderate rain and thundershowers at many places, with brief intense heavy showers possible in a few districts from afternoon to evening.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Between August 13 and 15, light to moderate rain and thundershowers are expected at many places, with brief intense showers possible at a few locations during the early morning or morning hours and again towards late afternoon and evening.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The forecast for August 20 to 22 indicates the possibility of light rain and thundershowers at scattered places.</p><p>The latest weather update also recorded significant rainfall during the preceding 24 hours. Pulwama received 57.5 mm of rain, Poonch 53 mm, Awantipora 47.8 mm and Rajouri 44 mm.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Jammu and Kashmir has witnessed frequent spells of heavy rain and intense showers in recent weeks. With further rainfall expected, authorities and residents in vulnerable areas have been advised to remain alert to sudden changes in weather and the possibility of flash flooding, landslides and mudslides.</p>

The Meteorological Centre has specifically warned of the possibility of heavy rain and brief intense heavy showers in a few districts of the Jammu division, while one or two districts of the Kashmir division may also experience brief intense showers.

The Meteorological Centre Srinagar has issued a weather advisory for Jammu and Kashmir, warning of spells of heavy to torrential rain and brief intense showers in parts of the Union Territory over the coming days. The weather conditions could trigger flash floods, landslides and mudslides in vulnerable areas. According to the latest forecast, August 16 to 19 could bring several spells of light to moderate rain and thundershowers across many places, with heavy rain and brief intense heavy showers likely in a few districts during the early morning and afternoon hours. The Meteorological Centre has specifically warned of the possibility of heavy rain and brief intense heavy showers in a few districts of the Jammu division, while one or two districts of the Kashmir division may also experience brief intense showers. The department cautioned that torrential rain and intense showers could generate flash floods, landslides and mudslides, particularly in vulnerable and hilly areas. For August 12, the weather department had forecast light to moderate rain and thundershowers at many places, with brief intense heavy showers possible in a few districts from afternoon to evening. Between August 13 and 15, light to moderate rain and thundershowers are expected at many places, with brief intense showers possible at a few locations during the early morning or morning hours and again towards late afternoon and evening. The forecast for August 20 to 22 indicates the possibility of light rain and thundershowers at scattered places. The latest weather update also recorded significant rainfall during the preceding 24 hours. Pulwama received 57.5 mm of rain, Poonch 53 mm, Awantipora 47.8 mm and Rajouri 44 mm. Jammu and Kashmir has witnessed frequent spells of heavy rain and intense showers in recent weeks. With further rainfall expected, authorities and residents in vulnerable areas have been advised to remain alert to sudden changes in weather and the possibility of flash flooding, landslides and mudslides.

<p>The Meteorological Centre has specifically warned of the possibility of heavy rain and brief intense heavy showers in a few districts of the Jammu division, while one or two districts of the Kashmir division may also experience brief intense showers.</p>

Heavy rain forecast for Jammu and Kashmir, flash flood and landslide risk warned

<p>The General Officer Commanding (GOC) of White Knight Corps visited the headquarters of CIF (Romeo) to review the prevailing security situation and assess the operational preparedness of formations and units deployed in the hinterland areas of the Rajouri-Poonch region.</p><p>During the visit, the GOC was briefed on the prevailing security dynamics, surveillance architecture, counter-infiltration measures and various initiatives being undertaken to strengthen operational capabilities and enhance the responsiveness of troops on the ground.</p><p>The Corps Commander commended the personnel for their alertness, professionalism and operational acumen, and urged all ranks to maintain the highest standards of operational readiness to effectively respond to emerging security challenges.</p><p>“GOC #𝗪𝗵𝗶𝘁𝗲𝗞𝗻𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁𝗖𝗼𝗿𝗽𝘀 visited HQ #𝗖𝗜𝗙𝗥𝗼𝗺𝗲𝗼 to undertake a comprehensive review of the security dynamics and operational preparedness of formations and units deployed in the Hinterland. The GOC was apprised of the prevailing security situation, surveillance architecture, counter-infiltration measures and initiatives towards enhancing operational capabilities. The #𝗖𝗼𝗿𝗽𝘀𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗺𝗮𝗻𝗱𝗲𝗿 commended their alertness, professionalism and operational acumen, urging continued focus on maintaining the highest standards of readiness and responsiveness,” said the Indian Army.</p><p>CIF (Romeo), which oversees counter-insurgency operations in the Pir Panjal region, plays a key role in maintaining security and conducting operations in the hinterland and border districts of Jammu and Kashmir.</p>

The Corps Commander commended the personnel for their alertness, professionalism and operational acumen, and urged all ranks to maintain the highest standards of operational readiness to effectively respond to emerging security challenges.

The General Officer Commanding (GOC) of White Knight Corps visited the headquarters of CIF (Romeo) to review the prevailing security situation and assess the operational preparedness of formations and units deployed in the hinterland areas of the Rajouri-Poonch region. During the visit, the GOC was briefed on the prevailing security dynamics, surveillance architecture, counter-infiltration measures and various initiatives being undertaken to strengthen operational capabilities and enhance the responsiveness of troops on the ground. The Corps Commander commended the personnel for their alertness, professionalism and operational acumen, and urged all ranks to maintain the highest standards of operational readiness to effectively respond to emerging security challenges. “GOC #𝗪𝗵𝗶𝘁𝗲𝗞𝗻𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁𝗖𝗼𝗿𝗽𝘀 visited HQ #𝗖𝗜𝗙𝗥𝗼𝗺𝗲𝗼 to undertake a comprehensive review of the security dynamics and operational preparedness of formations and units deployed in the Hinterland. The GOC was apprised of the prevailing security situation, surveillance architecture, counter-infiltration measures and initiatives towards enhancing operational capabilities. The #𝗖𝗼𝗿𝗽𝘀𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗺𝗮𝗻𝗱𝗲𝗿 commended their alertness, professionalism and operational acumen, urging continued focus on maintaining the highest standards of readiness and responsiveness,” said the Indian Army. CIF (Romeo), which oversees counter-insurgency operations in the Pir Panjal region, plays a key role in maintaining security and conducting operations in the hinterland and border districts of Jammu and Kashmir.

<p>The Corps Commander commended the personnel for their alertness, professionalism and operational acumen, and urged all ranks to maintain the highest standards of operational readiness to effectively respond to emerging security challenges.</p>

GOC White Knight Corps reviews operational readiness of forces in hinterland

<p>The pilot of the Air India Phuket-Delhi flight that suddenly lost altitude mid-air on August 4 reportedly slept for 30-35 minutes during the flight. This comes as an investigation continues into the incident in which 13 passengers and four crew members were injured when the plane suddenly dropped 300 feet in altitude.</p><p>According to a Hindustan Times report, citing two people familiar with his account to the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB), the pilot was suffering from sleep difficulties and was on prescribed medication. Earlier reports indicated that he had tested positive for marijuana following a drug test.</p><p>The pilot allegedly told investigators he was unable to sleep during his layover in Phuket. He reportedly also said he had been struggling with sleep for some time due to personal circumstances. The report added that the pilot did not identify the medication he was taking or specify how long he had been using it.</p><p>Under DGCA regulations, pilots taking prescription medication are required to disclose it to their airline. Failure to do so can lead to action by the airline. It remains unclear whether the pilot had made such a declaration.</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indigo-flight-suffers-engine-failure-emergency-declared-at-chennai-airport-1786520967055"><strong>IndiGo flight suffers engine failure; emergency declared at Chennai airport</strong></a></p><h2><strong>Did pilot sleep during flight?</strong></h2><p>According to the report, the pilot told investigators he slept for about 30 to 35 minutes during the flight, then used the washroom before returning to the cockpit and standing behind the first officer. He was discussing the aircraft’s air-conditioning system when the sudden altitude drop occurred, and the impact reportedly threw him to the cockpit floor. Reportedly, the first officer was flying the aircraft, while the commander was serving as the pilot monitoring.</p><p>A cabin crew member seated in the observer seat, a position assigned by the departing pilot when leaving the cockpit, helped the commander back to his feet, it added. The account is the first detailed description from the cockpit crew of the events aboard flight AI2379, an Airbus A320 registered as VT-EXO. However, the complete sequence of events cannot be verified.</p>

Air India’s Phuket-Delhi flight pilot reportedly slept for 30–35 minutes mid-flight and told investigators he had long suffered from sleep problems. The AAIB is investigating the 300-foot altitude drop.

The pilot of the Air India Phuket-Delhi flight that suddenly lost altitude mid-air on August 4 reportedly slept for 30-35 minutes during the flight. This comes as an investigation continues into the incident in which 13 passengers and four crew members were injured when the plane suddenly dropped 300 feet in altitude. According to a Hindustan Times report, citing two people familiar with his account to the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB), the pilot was suffering from sleep difficulties and was on prescribed medication. Earlier reports indicated that he had tested positive for marijuana following a drug test. The pilot allegedly told investigators he was unable to sleep during his layover in Phuket. He reportedly also said he had been struggling with sleep for some time due to personal circumstances. The report added that the pilot did not identify the medication he was taking or specify how long he had been using it. Under DGCA regulations, pilots taking prescription medication are required to disclose it to their airline. Failure to do so can lead to action by the airline. It remains unclear whether the pilot had made such a declaration. Also read | IndiGo flight suffers engine failure; emergency declared at Chennai airport Did pilot sleep during flight? According to the report, the pilot told investigators he slept for about 30 to 35 minutes during the flight, then used the washroom before returning to the cockpit and standing behind the first officer. He was discussing the aircraft’s air-conditioning system when the sudden altitude drop occurred, and the impact reportedly threw him to the cockpit floor. Reportedly, the first officer was flying the aircraft, while the commander was serving as the pilot monitoring. A cabin crew member seated in the observer seat, a position assigned by the departing pilot when leaving the cockpit, helped the commander back to his feet, it added. The account is the first detailed description from the cockpit crew of the events aboard flight AI2379, an Airbus A320 registered as VT-EXO. However, the complete sequence of events cannot be verified.

<p>Air India’s Phuket-Delhi flight pilot reportedly slept for 30–35 minutes mid-flight and told investigators he had long suffered from sleep problems. The AAIB is investigating the 300-foot altitude drop.</p>

Air India pilot who consumed marijuana fell asleep during Phuket-Delhi flight? Here’s what we know

<p>Days after Gen Z protest in India made waves forcing the country's education minister to resign over the paper leak in medical entrance examination, Gen Alpha, the generation next to the GenZs have also stepped up. In several states, Gen Alpha are protesting against the administration to demand better roads, schools and basic amenities. This wave of protest began when when young students under the leadership of the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) started protesting at the heart of the country last month.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The CJP, that originated on May 17 as a satirical social media page on Instagram after Chief Justice of India Justice Surya Kant called unemployed youths as “cockroaches” while hearing a case on May 15. He later clarified his remark but the damage was done. As more and more people joined the page, the makers decided to bring it outside the world of internet. They picked up on the issue of NEET-UG paper leak and the death by suicide by at least 22 students to demand accountability from the Education Ministry. They started a protest at New Delhi's Jantar Mantar and announced that they would not leave till former Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan resigns. On Jul 25, Pradhan did resign.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bjp-wants-rahul-gandhi-s-response-on-jharkhand-lathi-charge-opposition-asks-where-is-amit-shah-1786429889298">BJP wants Rahul Gandhi's response on Jharkhand lathi-charge, Opposition asks: 'Where is Amit Shah'</a></p><h3>CJP protest leads to wave of protests across India</h3><p>Cut to present, the CJP protest is over, but it has ignited series of protests across the country, most prominent being the protest in Jharkhand where students are protesting irregularities in Jharkhand Public Service Examination (JPSC) and Jharkhand Staff Selection Commission (JSSC). There are other protests happening elsewhere in the country, mainly by the Gen Alphas. This protest prompted the CJP to launch a campaign titled 'School Thik Karo' on Independence Day to improve the condition of government schools in villages, founder Abhijeet Dipke said.&nbsp;</p><h3><strong>WION takes a look at all the recent protest by Gen Alphas in the past week:&nbsp;</strong></h3><p><strong>Uttar Pradesh: </strong>A group of schoolchildren in Uttar Pradesh’s Hamirpur marched to the Hamirpur District Magistrate’s office on Aug 11, demanding a proper paved road to their school. Carrying the Tricolour and raising slogans, the students marched along with their parents. The students also claimed that an alternative route earlier used by residents had been closed by the Forest Department, leaving them with limited access to the area. Even as authorities attempted to stop them, they marched inside the DM's office. They said they had staged a protest on July 3, following which soil was dumped on the road as a temporary measure. But with the arrival of rain, the road once again turned into mud.</p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Gen Alpha isn&#39;t playing. 🔥<br><br>Govt school students in UP&#39;s Hamirpur just marched right into the DM’s office demanding a proper paved road to their school. 😎🗿 <a href="https://t.co/pNePkKUhm9">pic.twitter.com/pNePkKUhm9</a></p>&mdash; Krishna Yadav (@Control_Krishna) <a href="https://x.com/Control_Krishna/status/2087148495832813776?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 11, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<p>Another protest in Uttar Pradesh's Kishanpur, Fatehpur district was staged by around 1,500 students of Sarvodaya Inter College. It was a four-hour peaceful sit-in protest on July 28, 2026 to demand clean drinking water, working fans, repaired classroom infrastructure, and proper midday meals. The sit-in protest forced local education authorities to provide written assurances for immediate fixes. District education officials and the District Inspector of Schools (DIOS) rushed to the campus, committing in writing to install four fans per classroom, set up an RO water cooler, repair electrical wiring, and fix sanitation issues.</p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">YOUNGEST PROTESTERS<br> GOT IT DONE IN HOURS !!!<br><br>Students of Sarvodaya Inter College, Kishanpur in Uttar Pradesh’s Fatehpur started a protest demanding basic facilities such as adequate fans in classrooms, safe drinking water, better desks, wiring repairs and improved sanitation.… <a href="https://t.co/UFXZ3zNYPZ">pic.twitter.com/UFXZ3zNYPZ</a></p>&mdash; Ravi Prakash Official (@raviprakash_rtv) <a href="https://x.com/raviprakash_rtv/status/2082065185515422000?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 28, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<p>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/how-many-bills-have-been-passed-in-monsoon-session-of-parliament-1786522779362">How many Bills have been passed in Monsoon Session of Parliament</a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Rajasthan:</strong> In Barmer, students locked the gates of their Government Senior Secondary School and staged a sit-in, demanding immediate deployment of teachers until permanent appointments are made. In Jalore's Megalwa village, students raised slogans outside the PM SHRI Government Senior Secondary School, saying vacant teaching posts had left several subjects without instructors, affecting their studies and exam preparation. In Jaipur, deaf and mute students used sign language and demonstrated to highlight the sub-par conditions of their state-run school.</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://images.bhaskarassets.com/web2images/521/2026/07/27/whatsappvideo2026-07-27at9-1785126444033_1785126469.gif" alt="Barmer School Protest | Students Demand Teachers After Locking Gate"></figure>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Gen Alpha protest in Jaipur... and not a single word had to be spoken!<br>In a sight rarely seen, deaf and mute students at Jaipur&#39;s Government Seth Anandilal Poddar School staged a silent sit-in, communicating entirely through sign language<br><br>The students were protesting broken… <a href="https://t.co/skkNufyXKJ">pic.twitter.com/skkNufyXKJ</a></p>&mdash; Indians (@voicesindians) <a href="https://x.com/voicesindians/status/2086136886813495432?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 8, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<p><strong>Bihar: </strong>More than 40 students from Simuara Middle School in Gaya district marched to the Tikari Sub-Divisional Office on July 30 to demand action over poor school management and the absence of basic amenities. The students complained about poor-quality midday meals, a broken hand pump, unclean toilets and the lack of sports equipment. Tikari SDM Praveen Kundan directed the school's headmaster to resolve all issues within five days. He also constituted a three-member inquiry committee comprising Executive Magistrate Ranjit Kumar Singh, Tikari BDO Yogendra Paswan and ADSO Chandan Kumar to investigate the complaints and submit a report for further action.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://scontent.fdel16-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.99422-6/762291767_1375955021358880_5802588928431140764_n.png?stp=dst-jpg_tt6&amp;cstp=mx2048x1152&amp;ctp=s960x960&amp;_nc_cat=106&amp;ccb=1-7&amp;_nc_sid=833d8c&amp;_nc_ohc=GjTXJVI_usYQ7kNvwFjsTVP&amp;_nc_oc=Adq0L2JdbWmlusj3Bn3MeHIdB4jg4MIeLfyOTkRiJKSzD92UxGo3vClKyN2pAd27B5aTfMQPeKzINCWYcP9zbwfJ&amp;_nc_zt=14&amp;_nc_ht=scontent.fdel16-1.fna&amp;_nc_gid=EvjvpAfnYncPMNnwhKcBrw&amp;_nc_ss=7b2a8&amp;oh=00_AQF5mg6mYApoRzibjWeAO1QHklXp7vM_d0mQYAcWRLrSMQ&amp;oe=6A8308B0" alt="May be an image of one or more people"></figure>

<p><strong>Madhya Pradesh: </strong>Dozens of schoolgirls in Sironj, Madhya Pradesh, took to the streets after protesting against a rise in bus fares. Students of Kanya Higher Secondary School gathered at the Sironj bus stand and raised slogans for nearly half an hour. The students alleged that bus operators had increased fares arbitrarily, putting additional pressure on their families and affecting their daily commute to school.</p>

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<p><strong>Maharashtra: </strong>Class 10 students of a the zilla parishad (ZP) secondary school in Sonari village of Dharashiv's Paranda taluka in Maharashtra staged an indefinite sit-in directly outside the Chief Executive Officer's (CEO) administrative office. Frustrated by years of vacant secondary teacher posts, the students—joined by their parents—refused to leave, arguing that the lack of educators had left them completely unprepared for their upcoming board examinations.</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://static.toiimg.com/thumb/msid-132773349,imgsize-249941,width-400,height-225,resizemode-75/132773349.jpg" alt="Sonari school gets teacher after students protest outside ZP CEO’s chamber"></figure><p>Another viral video from Khetapur village in the Kuhi taluka of Nagpur rural, Maharashtra, who have publicly appealed for an official MSRTC (ST Mahamandal) bus service. Students trying to cycle to school face frequent tyre punctures. During the monsoon season, they are forced to walk the entire 7 km distance on foot in heavy rain.</p>

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<p>Students from Maharashtra’s Nashik grabbed a plastic water bottle, turned it into a microphone and made their own ground report on the state of the road. Sharing the video, Dipke said the students were effectively sending out a message that their concerns were often ignored.</p>

<p><strong>Uttarakhand: </strong>Visually impaired students at Dehradun's National Institute for the Empowerment of Persons with Visual Disabilities (NIEPVD)—historically known as NIVH—launched a multi-day protest in August 2026 to demand better campus amenities, financial aid, and the appointment of a permanent director.</p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">VISUALLY IMPAIRED STUDENTS ARE STILL WAITING TO BE HEARD.<br><br>Visually impaired students at Dehradun’s National Institute for the Visually Handicapped have entered the fifth day of their protest, demanding basic rights: quality food, affordable textbooks, adequate facilities,… <a href="https://t.co/AwLBJNNFrx">pic.twitter.com/AwLBJNNFrx</a></p>&mdash; Sanjay Deka (@SanjayDekaFLJ) <a href="https://x.com/SanjayDekaFLJ/status/2086797219903189028?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 10, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Gen Alpha is emerging as a new force in India's protest landscape, with schoolchildren demanding better roads, schools and basic amenities. From Jharkhand's JPSC-JSSC protests to UP's Hamirpur students demanding a paved road, the wave follows the CJP-led student movement.

Days after Gen Z protest in India made waves forcing the country's education minister to resign over the paper leak in medical entrance examination, Gen Alpha, the generation next to the GenZs have also stepped up. In several states, Gen Alpha are protesting against the administration to demand better roads, schools and basic amenities. This wave of protest began when when young students under the leadership of the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) started protesting at the heart of the country last month. The CJP, that originated on May 17 as a satirical social media page on Instagram after Chief Justice of India Justice Surya Kant called unemployed youths as “cockroaches” while hearing a case on May 15. He later clarified his remark but the damage was done. As more and more people joined the page, the makers decided to bring it outside the world of internet. They picked up on the issue of NEET-UG paper leak and the death by suicide by at least 22 students to demand accountability from the Education Ministry. They started a protest at New Delhi's Jantar Mantar and announced that they would not leave till former Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan resigns. On Jul 25, Pradhan did resign. Also Read: BJP wants Rahul Gandhi's response on Jharkhand lathi-charge, Opposition asks: 'Where is Amit Shah' CJP protest leads to wave of protests across India Cut to present, the CJP protest is over, but it has ignited series of protests across the country, most prominent being the protest in Jharkhand where students are protesting irregularities in Jharkhand Public Service Examination (JPSC) and Jharkhand Staff Selection Commission (JSSC). There are other protests happening elsewhere in the country, mainly by the Gen Alphas. This protest prompted the CJP to launch a campaign titled 'School Thik Karo' on Independence Day to improve the condition of government schools in villages, founder Abhijeet Dipke said. WION takes a look at all the recent protest by Gen Alphas in the past week: Uttar Pradesh: A group of schoolchildren in Uttar Pradesh’s Hamirpur marched to the Hamirpur District Magistrate’s office on Aug 11, demanding a proper paved road to their school. Carrying the Tricolour and raising slogans, the students marched along with their parents. The students also claimed that an alternative route earlier used by residents had been closed by the Forest Department, leaving them with limited access to the area. Even as authorities attempted to stop them, they marched inside the DM's office. They said they had staged a protest on July 3, following which soil was dumped on the road as a temporary measure. But with the arrival of rain, the road once again turned into mud.

<p>Gen Alpha is emerging as a new force in India's protest landscape, with schoolchildren demanding better roads, schools and basic amenities. From Jharkhand's JPSC-JSSC protests to UP's Hamirpur students demanding a paved road, the wave follows the CJP-led student movement.</p>

India’s protest wave intensifies: From Bihar to Maharashtra, Gen Alpha takes to street, demand better schools

<p>Five individuals have been arrested for reportedly posing as GST officials and extorting Rs 29 lakh from a GST consultant in Noida, police confirmed on Wednesday (August 13). The incident occurred on July 20 when the GST consultant was travelling in his car along with his pet dog and laptop.</p><p><br>"The Bisrakh police have recovered the entire extorted amount, including Rs 24.50 lakh in cash and gold and silver jewellery worth Rs 4.50 lakh," Central Noida DCP Shailendra Kumar Singh said. "The accused allegedly intercepted his vehicle near the S Aspire Society by blocking its path with their car. Posing as GST officials, they entered his vehicle and took him along while threatening him over alleged fake e-way bills of two firms," he said.</p><p><br>Police stated that the accused allegedly threatened to have the victim jailed over a GST-related matter and demanded Rs 29 lakh in exchange. The money was reportedly brought in cash through the victim's brother, after which the accused abandoned the victim along with his car and fled.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/karnataka-bandh-today-bengaluru-police-say-no-one-can-be-forced-to-participate-vow-to-deal-with-defaulters-firmly-and-appropriately-1786592749509">Karnataka Bandh today: Police issue BIG warning against forced participation, reveal what's open in Bengaluru</a></p><p><br>The investigation revealed that the main accused, Kashish Chauhan, also known as Ishu, was already known to the victim, the two having been acquainted since 2021. Police said Chauhan was aware that the victim dealt with GST-related work and allegedly used this knowledge to target him.</p><p><br>According to police, the accused wore a police sub-inspector's uniform along with a Delhi Civil Defence uniform while committing the crime. Two vehicles and seven mobile phones allegedly used in the offence have also been recovered.</p><p><br>Police added that Chauhan is employed as a DCPO (Driver-cum-Pump Operator) at Yashobhoomi, Dwarka, Delhi, while accused Rajesh Pawar is linked with Delhi Civil Defence. Vivek Sharma had worked at Escort, Manesar, Ballabhgarh. Police also clarified that all those accused involved in the incident are not police personnel.</p><p><br>The other arrested accused have been identified as Ankit Shahi and Anshul, in addition to Chauhan, Pawar, and Sharma. The DCP said the accused were tracked down using surveillance, CCTV footage, and local intelligence, and were arrested near the ISKCON temple on Jalpur Road. Along with recovering the entire Rs 29 lakh, police also seized the two vehicles, the police sub-inspector and Delhi Civil Defence uniforms, and seven mobile phones allegedly used in the crime. Police said they are verifying the criminal backgrounds of the accused.</p>

Accused allegedly threatened to have the victim jailed over a GST matter and demanded Rs 29 lakh. The victim's brother brought the cash, after which the accused fled, abandoning the victim and his car.


Five individuals have been arrested for reportedly posing as GST officials and extorting Rs 29 lakh from a GST consultant in Noida, police confirmed on Wednesday (August 13). The incident occurred on July 20 when the GST consultant was travelling in his car along with his pet dog and laptop. "The Bisrakh police have recovered the entire extorted amount, including Rs 24.50 lakh in cash and gold and silver jewellery worth Rs 4.50 lakh," Central Noida DCP Shailendra Kumar Singh said. "The accused allegedly intercepted his vehicle near the S Aspire Society by blocking its path with their car. Posing as GST officials, they entered his vehicle and took him along while threatening him over alleged fake e-way bills of two firms," he said. Police stated that the accused allegedly threatened to have the victim jailed over a GST-related matter and demanded Rs 29 lakh in exchange. The money was reportedly brought in cash through the victim's brother, after which the accused abandoned the victim along with his car and fled. Also read: Karnataka Bandh today: Police issue BIG warning against forced participation, reveal what's open in Bengaluru The investigation revealed that the main accused, Kashish Chauhan, also known as Ishu, was already known to the victim, the two having been acquainted since 2021. Police said Chauhan was aware that the victim dealt with GST-related work and allegedly used this knowledge to target him. According to police, the accused wore a police sub-inspector's uniform along with a Delhi Civil Defence uniform while committing the crime. Two vehicles and seven mobile phones allegedly used in the offence have also been recovered. Police added that Chauhan is employed as a DCPO (Driver-cum-Pump Operator) at Yashobhoomi, Dwarka, Delhi, while accused Rajesh Pawar is linked with Delhi Civil Defence. Vivek Sharma had worked at Escort, Manesar, Ballabhgarh. Police also clarified that all those accused involved in the incident are not police personnel. The other arrested accused have been identified as Ankit Shahi and Anshul, in addition to Chauhan, Pawar, and Sharma. The DCP said the accused were tracked down using surveillance, CCTV footage, and local intelligence, and were arrested near the ISKCON temple on Jalpur Road. Along with recovering the entire Rs 29 lakh, police also seized the two vehicles, the police sub-inspector and Delhi Civil Defence uniforms, and seven mobile phones allegedly used in the crime. Police said they are verifying the criminal backgrounds of the accused.

<p>The accused allegedly threatened to have the victim jailed over a GST matter and demanded Rs 29 lakh. The victim's brother brought the cash, after which the accused fled, abandoning the victim and his car.</p>

Five people arrested in Noida for posing as GST officials, extorting Rs 29 lakh

<p>The Bengaluru City Police have appealed to residents to remain calm and cooperate with authorities ahead of the Karnataka bandh on Thursday (Aug 13), amid protests over the Cauvery water dispute.</p><p>In a statement issued on Wednesday (Aug 12) ahead of the Karnataka Bandh, Bengaluru Police Commissioner Seemant Kumar Singh said several organisations had called for the statewide bandh against the Cauvery Water Management Authority's order on water allocation to Tamil Nadu. At the same time, some organisations have informed the police that they do not support the shutdown.</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/karnataka-bandh-tomorrow-what-s-open-what-s-closed-on-august-13-schools-transport-and-border-impact-decoded-1786518579218"><strong>Karnataka Bandh today: What’s open, what’s closed on August 13? Schools, transport, and border impact decoded</strong></a></p><h2><strong>Police warn against forced shutdowns</strong></h2><p>The police said citizens have a democratic right to protest peacefully, but stressed that this cannot come at the expense of others' right to go about their daily lives.</p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">VIDEO | Mandya, Karnataka: Pro-Kannada groups protest against the release of Cauvery water to Tamil Nadu, urging the state government not to release water. Police security tightened in the district amid a call for a bandh.<br><br>(Full video available on PTI Videos -… <a href="https://t.co/UBvbkbzx9t">pic.twitter.com/UBvbkbzx9t</a></p>&mdash; Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) <a href="https://x.com/PTI_News/status/2087742496067764274?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 13, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<p>The department specifically warned that no individual or organisation should force people to join the bandh, threaten them into closing shops or establishments, block roads or compel anyone to participate in protests.</p><p>Any violence, threats, damage to public or private property, obstruction of traffic or essential services, or attempts to take the law into one's own hands will be dealt with "firmly and appropriately in accordance with the law", the police said.</p><h2><strong>Schools, offices, shops expected to remain open</strong></h2><p>For Bengaluru residents, the police statement indicates that normal activity is expected to continue during the bandh.</p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="hi" dir="ltr">मांड्या, कर्नाटक: कावेरी मुद्दे को लेकर पूरे कर्नाटक में बंद मनाया जा रहा है, जिसमें किसान, कन्नड़ संगठन, व्यापारी, ऑटो ड्राइवर और अन्य संगठन शामिल हैं। दुकानें और होटल बंद हैं, सड़कों पर ट्रैफिक कम है और पुलिस की कड़ी तैनाती के साथ-साथ शराब की बिक्री पर भी रोक लगाई गई है। <a href="https://t.co/CUhuCWEWMg">pic.twitter.com/CUhuCWEWMg</a></p>&mdash; IANS Hindi (@IANSKhabar) <a href="https://x.com/IANSKhabar/status/2087743037556641918?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 13, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<p>Schools and colleges, offices, shops and commercial establishments, public transport and other regular services are expected to function as usual. Residents have been asked to continue their daily activities without fear or apprehension.</p><p>However, the statement does not rule out the possibility of disruptions arising from protests or localised incidents.</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/who-is-tukaram-mundhe-ias-officer-gets-standing-ovation-amid-maharashtra-food-crackdown-all-you-need-to-know-about-the-real-life-singham-watch-1786430772680"><strong>Who's Tukaram Mundhe? IAS gets standing ovation amid Maharashtra food crackdown</strong></a></p><h2><strong>Security stepped up across Bengaluru</strong></h2><p>The police said precautionary measures have already been put in place across the city. Adequate personnel have been deployed at important and sensitive locations, while additional patrolling and security arrangements are being carried out to maintain public order.</p><p>"Bengaluru City has always demonstrated a spirit of peace, mutual respect, and cooperation. In order to uphold this tradition, all members of organisations and the general public are requested to extend their full cooperation to the Bengaluru City Police and help ensure that the city remains peaceful, safe and normal," the Commissioner said.</p><p>The appeal comes as pro-Kannada organisations prepare for the statewide shutdown over the Cauvery water issue. The bandh is scheduled to take place from 6 am to 6 pm on August 13.<br> </p>

Bengaluru Police have urged residents to remain calm and continue their daily activities during Thursday's Karnataka bandh over the Cauvery water dispute. Schools, offices, shops, and public transport are expected to function, while police have warned against forced shutdowns.

The Bengaluru City Police have appealed to residents to remain calm and cooperate with authorities ahead of the Karnataka bandh on Thursday (Aug 13), amid protests over the Cauvery water dispute. In a statement issued on Wednesday (Aug 12) ahead of the Karnataka Bandh, Bengaluru Police Commissioner Seemant Kumar Singh said several organisations had called for the statewide bandh against the Cauvery Water Management Authority's order on water allocation to Tamil Nadu. At the same time, some organisations have informed the police that they do not support the shutdown. Also read | Karnataka Bandh today: What’s open, what’s closed on August 13? Schools, transport, and border impact decoded Police warn against forced shutdowns The police said citizens have a democratic right to protest peacefully, but stressed that this cannot come at the expense of others' right to go about their daily lives.

<p>Bengaluru Police have urged residents to remain calm and continue their daily activities during Thursday's Karnataka bandh over the Cauvery water dispute. Schools, offices, shops, and public transport are expected to function, while police have warned against forced shutdowns.</p>

Karnataka Bandh today: Police issue BIG warning against forced participation, reveal what's open in Bengaluru

<p>The annual Kanwar Yatra is over and it has left the holy city of Haridwar with over 7000 tonnes of garbage. The two-week ‘Kanwar Yatra’ in which approximately 48 million pilgrims participated was the the highest number on record. But as they left after Shivratri, they left behind heaps of trash. Visuals showed discarded clothing, plastic items, rotten flowers and Kanwar structures scattered on the ghats. Municipal officials said that the areas worst affected by the unregulated dumping of waste are the numerous ‘ghats’ on the Ganga river, markets where pilgrims stopped to rest and eat.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Speaking to media, Nandan Kumar, municipal corporation town commissioner said, “…approximately 7000 tonnes of garbage was generated during the two weeks of Kanwar yatra. It is being cleared since Tuesday evening, as Kanwariyas started leaving the city for their respective destinations after the Shravan Shivratri Ganga Aarti. Sanitation workers have been deployed in groups around Har-ki-Pauri and the Mela. Waste collection and disposal is also being carried out in city markets, lanes, roads and parking lots on a war footing.</p>

<p>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/h1n1-cases-spike-nearly-six-fold-in-delhi-1786539612741">H1N1 cases spike nearly six-fold in Delhi</a></p><h2>Haridwar will need a “mega cleanliness” drive</h2><p>The Haridwar district administration has launched a mega cleanliness drive from August 12 to 18 to restore cleanliness in the district to pre-Kanwar fair levels.</p><p>“Heaps of garbage and waste are lying at Ganga ghats, in the Kanwar Mela zone, along the Kanwar patri and throughout the pedestrian routes used by Kanwariyas to travel, rest and camp, as well as at vehicle parking areas,” Lalit Narayan Mishra, chief development officer, said.“While civic agencies are already involved in the clearance, it is vital that local residents, the saint community, religious organisations, educational institutions, volunteers and traders also participate,” Mishra said.</p><p>Mishra further said municipal corporations, local authorities including district and village panchayats were working round the clock on waste collection and disposal. The work is being monitored on site and online by senior officials to ensure time-bound clearance of waste, he said.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/kanwar-yatra-2026-delhi-cm-rekha-gupta-reviews-camp-showers-flowers-on-devotees-1786180389939">Kanwar Yatra 2026: Delhi CM Rekha Gupta reviews camp, showers flowers on devotees</a></p><h2>Sanitation worker deployment</h2><p>Civic authorities have deployed over 1000 sanitation personnel and 100 outsourced workers for the drive, along with 80 garbage collection, transportation and disposal vehicles.</p><p>The city’s seer community has extended support to the district administration’s initiative to involve stakeholders and local residents in the post-Kanwar cleanliness drive.</p><p>The Akhil Bharatiya Akhara Parishad, the apex body of recognised akhadas, has informed the district administration that monks and office-bearers of various akhadas would participate in the cleanliness drive.</p><p>“Kanwar pilgrimage is an ancient tradition and in recent years the number of Kanwariyas has crossed the four-crore mark, so waste generation is bound to increase manifold. We fully support the administration’s initiative to seek voluntary participation from individuals. By participating in this post-Kanwar cleanliness drive, people will also derive spiritual satisfaction as they will indirectly be helping clean Ganga and reduce pollution,” said Akhara Parishad president Mahant Ravindra Puri of Niranjani Akhada.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

Haridwar is struggling to clear over 7,000 tonnes of garbage left after a record 48 million pilgrims attended the 2026 Kanwar Yatra. Authorities have launched a mega cleanliness drive, deploying over 1,000 sanitation workers and vehicles as experts warn of rising pollution and disease risks.

The annual Kanwar Yatra is over and it has left the holy city of Haridwar with over 7000 tonnes of garbage. The two-week ‘Kanwar Yatra’ in which approximately 48 million pilgrims participated was the the highest number on record. But as they left after Shivratri, they left behind heaps of trash. Visuals showed discarded clothing, plastic items, rotten flowers and Kanwar structures scattered on the ghats. Municipal officials said that the areas worst affected by the unregulated dumping of waste are the numerous ‘ghats’ on the Ganga river, markets where pilgrims stopped to rest and eat. Speaking to media, Nandan Kumar, municipal corporation town commissioner said, “…approximately 7000 tonnes of garbage was generated during the two weeks of Kanwar yatra. It is being cleared since Tuesday evening, as Kanwariyas started leaving the city for their respective destinations after the Shravan Shivratri Ganga Aarti. Sanitation workers have been deployed in groups around Har-ki-Pauri and the Mela. Waste collection and disposal is also being carried out in city markets, lanes, roads and parking lots on a war footing.

<p>Haridwar is struggling to clear over 7,000 tonnes of garbage left after a record 48 million pilgrims attended the 2026 Kanwar Yatra. Authorities have launched a mega cleanliness drive, deploying over 1,000 sanitation workers and vehicles as experts warn of rising pollution and disease risks.</p>

7,000 tonnes of garbage, bottles of urine: Haridwar launches mega cleanup after Kanwar Yatra

<p>Karnataka is facing a 12-hour bandh on Thursday (Aug 13). Will the entire state be shut down? The protest, scheduled from 6 am to 6 pm, is being organised by pro-Kannada groups, including Kannada activist Vatal Nagaraj, over the long-running Cauvery water dispute. The organisations are also demanding progress on the Mekedatu, Mahadayi, and Kalasa-Banduri projects.</p><p>For people living in Karnataka, however, the immediate concern is more practical: will they be able to get to work, send their children to school, or travel across the state? Here is what we know so far.</p><h2><strong>Will Schools remain open during the Karnataka bandh?</strong></h2><p>Students are unlikely to get an unexpected holiday on Thursday. Schools are expected to remain open after the Associated Management of Primary and Secondary Schools in Karnataka withdrew its earlier call for an education shutdown.</p><p>However, that does not rule out school-level decisions. Institutions located in areas where protests or traffic restrictions develop could make separate arrangements.</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/who-is-tukaram-mundhe-ias-officer-gets-standing-ovation-amid-maharashtra-food-crackdown-all-you-need-to-know-about-the-real-life-singham-watch-1786430772680"><strong>Who's Tukaram Mundhe? IAS gets standing ovation amid Maharashtra food crackdown</strong></a></p><h2><strong>Office-goers may face a bigger problem</strong></h2><p>There is no statewide directive for corporate offices or other workplaces to close. Most offices are therefore expected to function normally. However, the difficulty could come during the commute, particularly if buses, taxis or major roads are affected.</p><h2><strong>Are banks open or closed during bandh?</strong></h2><p>Banks are expected to remain operational.</p><h2><strong>Public transport could be the real disruption</strong></h2><p>Buses, cabs, and taxis are among the services most likely to feel the impact of the bandh. Protests, road blockades, and diversions could disrupt regular routes. Interstate journeys may also take longer, especially on routes connecting Karnataka with Tamil Nadu.</p><p>The Attibele border is one area commuters should watch closely. The crossing sees heavy movement of buses, freight vehicles, and private cars, and protest activity has already affected traffic there.</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/tamil-nadu-cm-vijay-leads-mass-anti-drug-pledge-for-school-students-1786431072899"><strong>Tamil Nadu CM Vijay leads mass anti-drug pledge for school students</strong></a></p><h2><strong>What about shops? Would they be closed?</strong></h2><p>There is no indication that every commercial establishment will be forced to close. Some shops and markets may shut voluntarily in support of the protest, while others could continue trading. Restaurants and hotels may also make their own decisions.</p><p>Notably, Vatal Nagaraj has specifically appealed to hotel owners in Bengaluru and Mysuru to keep their establishments closed.</p><p>Hospitals and pharmacies should remain open</p><p>Essential services are expected to be exempt from the disruption. Hospitals, medical shops and emergency services are expected to continue functioning, so people needing urgent medical assistance should not be affected by the shutdown in the same way as regular commuters.</p><h2><strong>Why are Kannada groups protesting?</strong></h2><p>The immediate trigger is the Cauvery water dispute. Pro-Kannada organisations are opposing the Cauvery Water Management Authority's direction on releasing around 12,000 cusecs of water for another 15 days to Tamil Nadu. Their demands also include movement on the Mekedatu, Mahadayi, and Kalasa-Banduri projects.</p><p>Nagaraj has claimed that more than 2,000 pro-Kannada organisations have backed the bandh.</p><p>Chief Minister DK Shivakumar has appealed to him to withdraw the call. Nagaraj has rejected the appeal and is proceeding with the protest.</p><h2><strong>What this means for August 13</strong></h2><p>There is unlikely to be a blanket shutdown across Karnataka. Schools, offices, banks, and hospitals are expected to function.</p><p>The biggest uncertainty is expected to be transport. Buses, taxis and interstate traffic could be disrupted, while shops, markets, hotels, and restaurants may open or close depending on local participation.</p>

Karnataka is bracing for a 12-hour bandh on August 13, but the state is unlikely to come to a complete standstill. Here is where disruption is most likely.

Karnataka is facing a 12-hour bandh on Thursday (Aug 13). Will the entire state be shut down? The protest, scheduled from 6 am to 6 pm, is being organised by pro-Kannada groups, including Kannada activist Vatal Nagaraj, over the long-running Cauvery water dispute. The organisations are also demanding progress on the Mekedatu, Mahadayi, and Kalasa-Banduri projects. For people living in Karnataka, however, the immediate concern is more practical: will they be able to get to work, send their children to school, or travel across the state? Here is what we know so far. Will Schools remain open during the Karnataka bandh? Students are unlikely to get an unexpected holiday on Thursday. Schools are expected to remain open after the Associated Management of Primary and Secondary Schools in Karnataka withdrew its earlier call for an education shutdown. However, that does not rule out school-level decisions. Institutions located in areas where protests or traffic restrictions develop could make separate arrangements. Also read | Who's Tukaram Mundhe? IAS gets standing ovation amid Maharashtra food crackdown Office-goers may face a bigger problem There is no statewide directive for corporate offices or other workplaces to close. Most offices are therefore expected to function normally. However, the difficulty could come during the commute, particularly if buses, taxis or major roads are affected. Are banks open or closed during bandh? Banks are expected to remain operational. Public transport could be the real disruption Buses, cabs, and taxis are among the services most likely to feel the impact of the bandh. Protests, road blockades, and diversions could disrupt regular routes. Interstate journeys may also take longer, especially on routes connecting Karnataka with Tamil Nadu. The Attibele border is one area commuters should watch closely. The crossing sees heavy movement of buses, freight vehicles, and private cars, and protest activity has already affected traffic there. Also read | Tamil Nadu CM Vijay leads mass anti-drug pledge for school students What about shops? Would they be closed? There is no indication that every commercial establishment will be forced to close. Some shops and markets may shut voluntarily in support of the protest, while others could continue trading. Restaurants and hotels may also make their own decisions. Notably, Vatal Nagaraj has specifically appealed to hotel owners in Bengaluru and Mysuru to keep their establishments closed. Hospitals and pharmacies should remain open Essential services are expected to be exempt from the disruption. Hospitals, medical shops and emergency services are expected to continue functioning, so people needing urgent medical assistance should not be affected by the shutdown in the same way as regular commuters. Why are Kannada groups protesting? The immediate trigger is the Cauvery water dispute. Pro-Kannada organisations are opposing the Cauvery Water Management Authority's direction on releasing around 12,000 cusecs of water for another 15 days to Tamil Nadu. Their demands also include movement on the Mekedatu, Mahadayi, and Kalasa-Banduri projects. Nagaraj has claimed that more than 2,000 pro-Kannada organisations have backed the bandh. Chief Minister DK Shivakumar has appealed to him to withdraw the call. Nagaraj has rejected the appeal and is proceeding with the protest. What this means for August 13 There is unlikely to be a blanket shutdown across Karnataka. Schools, offices, banks, and hospitals are expected to function. The biggest uncertainty is expected to be transport. Buses, taxis and interstate traffic could be disrupted, while shops, markets, hotels, and restaurants may open or close depending on local participation.

<p>Karnataka is facing a 12-hour bandh today (August 13), but the state is unlikely to come to a complete standstill. Here is where disruption is most likely.</p>

Karnataka Bandh today: What’s open, what’s closed on August 13? Schools, transport, and border impact decoded

<p>A new report by a UN Security Council body monitoring counter-terrorism sanctions has confirmed that al-Qaeda in the Indian Subcontinent (AQIS) was responsible for the car bomb blast near the Red Fort in New Delhi in 2025. The biannual report from the Security Council’s monitoring team for sanctions on al-Qaeda and Islamic State, noted that both terror groups have “shown a sustained interest over many years in developing chemical and biological weapons.” Indian authorities had arrested three people, including a doctor, who had been tasked by an Islamic State cell abroad to develop ricin, a type of poison.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/150-years-of-vande-mataram-red-fort-to-witness-historic-independence-day-celebration-1786471437777">150 years of Vande Mataram: Red Fort to witness historic Independence Day celebration</a></p><h2>NIA's chargesheet</h2><p>In May this year, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) filed a chargesheet against 10 individuals in connection with the car bomb explosion near Red Fort on November 10, 2025, that named 10 accused linked to Ansar Ghazwat-ul-Hind (AGuH), an affiliate of AQIS. The blast, involving a vehicle-borne improvised explosive device, caused 11 fatalities, numerous injuries and significant damage to property.The NIA’s investigation identified Umar un-Nabi, a former assistant professor of medicine at Al-Falah University in Faridabad who died in the blast, as the primary perpetrator.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/snipers-nsg-anti-drone-systems-inside-delhi-s-massive-red-fort-security-plan-ahead-of-independence-day-1786270573200">Snipers, NSG, anti-drone systems: Inside Delhi’s massive Red Fort security plan ahead of Independence Day</a></p><h2>UNSC body's report</h2><p>The UN sanctions monitoring team’s report said, “The attack in November 2025 on the Red Fort in Delhi was officially attributed to AQIS. There was some concern about AQIS trying to exploit Bangladesh to establish cells there.”</p><p>The report noted that AQIS has “continued to evolve from a fragmented group into a regional terrorist entity; it established logistics and financial networks, working in decentralised small, scattered cells instead of large units”.</p><p>“The AQIS leadership reportedly remained in Kabul, having been issued tazkiras (national IDs), suggesting close cooperation between the Taliban and AQIS,” the report said.According to the report, AQIS formed the backbone of Ittihad-ul-Mujahideen Pakistan (IMP), which was reportedly responsible for multiple attacks, including a suicide bombing and detonation of a vehicle-borne improvised explosive device near a security post in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa province on May 9 that resulted in 21 deaths.</p><p>Both al-Qaeda and Islamic State have continued their efforts to develop chemical and biological weapons but have so far failed to overcome “associated technical challenges”, the report said. Instructions on developing such weapons have been widely shared within online terrorist communities, and in February this year, Islamic State’s English-language “Invade” magazine included instructions on developing botulinum toxin and cyanide.</p><p>“ISIL-K has shown a particular interest, and over the past 12 months circulated instructions on developing the toxin ricin,” the report said, referring to Islamic State-Khorasan Province or the group’s affiliate focused on South and Central Asia.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The report noted that al-Qaeda’s status and strength in Afghanistan “remained unchanged”. On April 28, al-Qaeda’s official media outlet, As-Sahab Media Foundation, published a statement supporting the Taliban and, for the first time, operations by the Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) against Pakistan. “While Al-Qaida provided ideological guidance, training and support to TTP in the latter’s insurgency against Pakistan, this public statement was more direct,” the report stated.</p><p>The report highlighted the “increased use of cryptocurrency by terrorist groups”, and recommended that the UN should explore the creation of a “dedicated ‘digital currency address’ field in the sanctions list in consultation with relevant Panels of Experts” to counter the phenomenon. ISIL-K is among the groups that have used cryptocurrency to raise funds.</p><p>The report further highlighted the threat of “misuse of third parties” in terror financing cases and encouraged the implementation of Financial Action Task Force (FATF) recommendations for identifying the ultimate beneficial ownership in terrorism-related investigations.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><br>&nbsp;</p>

A UN Security Council monitoring report has officially attributed the November 2025 Red Fort car blast to AQIS. The report warns of AQIS efforts to establish cells in Bangladesh, its expanding regional networks, terrorist financing through cryptocurrency 

A new report by a UN Security Council body monitoring counter-terrorism sanctions has confirmed that al-Qaeda in the Indian Subcontinent (AQIS) was responsible for the car bomb blast near the Red Fort in New Delhi in 2025. The biannual report from the Security Council’s monitoring team for sanctions on al-Qaeda and Islamic State, noted that both terror groups have “shown a sustained interest over many years in developing chemical and biological weapons.” Indian authorities had arrested three people, including a doctor, who had been tasked by an Islamic State cell abroad to develop ricin, a type of poison. Also Read: 150 years of Vande Mataram: Red Fort to witness historic Independence Day celebration NIA's chargesheet In May this year, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) filed a chargesheet against 10 individuals in connection with the car bomb explosion near Red Fort on November 10, 2025, that named 10 accused linked to Ansar Ghazwat-ul-Hind (AGuH), an affiliate of AQIS. The blast, involving a vehicle-borne improvised explosive device, caused 11 fatalities, numerous injuries and significant damage to property.The NIA’s investigation identified Umar un-Nabi, a former assistant professor of medicine at Al-Falah University in Faridabad who died in the blast, as the primary perpetrator. Also Read: Snipers, NSG, anti-drone systems: Inside Delhi’s massive Red Fort security plan ahead of Independence Day UNSC body's report The UN sanctions monitoring team’s report said, “The attack in November 2025 on the Red Fort in Delhi was officially attributed to AQIS. There was some concern about AQIS trying to exploit Bangladesh to establish cells there.” The report noted that AQIS has “continued to evolve from a fragmented group into a regional terrorist entity; it established logistics and financial networks, working in decentralised small, scattered cells instead of large units”. “The AQIS leadership reportedly remained in Kabul, having been issued tazkiras (national IDs), suggesting close cooperation between the Taliban and AQIS,” the report said.According to the report, AQIS formed the backbone of Ittihad-ul-Mujahideen Pakistan (IMP), which was reportedly responsible for multiple attacks, including a suicide bombing and detonation of a vehicle-borne improvised explosive device near a security post in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa province on May 9 that resulted in 21 deaths. Both al-Qaeda and Islamic State have continued their efforts to develop chemical and biological weapons but have so far failed to overcome “associated technical challenges”, the report said. Instructions on developing such weapons have been widely shared within online terrorist communities, and in February this year, Islamic State’s English-language “Invade” magazine included instructions on developing botulinum toxin and cyanide. “ISIL-K has shown a particular interest, and over the past 12 months circulated instructions on developing the toxin ricin,” the report said, referring to Islamic State-Khorasan Province or the group’s affiliate focused on South and Central Asia. The report noted that al-Qaeda’s status and strength in Afghanistan “remained unchanged”. On April 28, al-Qaeda’s official media outlet, As-Sahab Media Foundation, published a statement supporting the Taliban and, for the first time, operations by the Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) against Pakistan. “While Al-Qaida provided ideological guidance, training and support to TTP in the latter’s insurgency against Pakistan, this public statement was more direct,” the report stated. The report highlighted the “increased use of cryptocurrency by terrorist groups”, and recommended that the UN should explore the creation of a “dedicated ‘digital currency address’ field in the sanctions list in consultation with relevant Panels of Experts” to counter the phenomenon. ISIL-K is among the groups that have used cryptocurrency to raise funds. The report further highlighted the threat of “misuse of third parties” in terror financing cases and encouraged the implementation of Financial Action Task Force (FATF) recommendations for identifying the ultimate beneficial ownership in terrorism-related investigations.

<p>A UN Security Council monitoring report has officially attributed the November 2025 Red Fort car blast to AQIS. The report warns of AQIS efforts to establish cells in Bangladesh, its expanding regional networks, terrorist financing through cryptocurrency&nbsp;</p>

UN Security Council body attributes Al-Qaeda involvement behind Red Fort blast that killed 11

<p>After spyware and facial recognition, US President Donald Trump's immigration crackdown is adding a new tool to its arsenal.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The US Immigration and Customs Department or ICE is now planning to spend up to 20 million US Dollars to purchase thousands of gloves designed to deliver painful electric shocks to suspects.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>In fact, the manufacturer prescribes that officers must complete a course to use these gloves and be re-certified every two years.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>It has also recommended that security forces should avoid touching areas like head, face, throat, chest and groin with these gloves.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>This is not all.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The company warned that this tool shouldn't be used as punishment, torture and on high-risk populations such as children, pregnant women, elderly and disabled people.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>However, activists have expressed alarm at this plan as ICE is already facing criticism over their use of brute force against alleged illegal immigrants with little oversight or accountability.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Protests originally erupted across America after 37-year old Renee Good was shot dead by ICE officer Jonathan Ross on January 7.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>This was followed by a series of such killings.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

<p> </p><p> </p><p>Also, over 50 people have died in ICE custody since January last year when Trump started his second term as US President.</p><p> </p><p>Now, public support for Trump's immigration crackdown is also waning.</p><p> </p><p>According to a recent opinion poll conducted by YouGov, which surveyed over one thousand six hundred US citizens, over half of them complained that ICE is using too much force.</p><p> </p><p>Nearly half of the respondents expressed no confidence in this federal agency and demanded its abolition.</p><p> </p><p>As per this poll, only one-fourth of Americans believe that the suspects who are deported by ICE are criminals in reality.</p><p> </p><p>This also comes at a time when living conditions in ice detention centres have come under intense scrutiny.</p><p> </p><p>Recently, a family of a man from El Salvador who died in one such facility in New Jersey, alleged medical negligence by the authorities.</p><p> </p><p>Subsequently, Hakeem Jeffries, the Minority Leader in the US House of representatives called for a closure of this ICE detention centre.</p><p> </p><p>He also accused Trump of lying to Americans on the alleged weaponisation of ICE.</p><p> </p><p>While ICE recently announced that its field officers will be equipped with body-worn cameras by the end of September amid intensified pressure for accountability, it issued a key caveat...</p><p> </p><p>While taxpayers' money is being used to buy these cameras, the footage will only be released if it is in the best interests of the agency to do so.</p>

The US Immigration and Customs Department is planning to spend up to $20 million to purchase gloves designed to deliver painful electric shocks to suspects. In fact, the manufacturer prescribes that officers must complete a course to use these gloves and be re-certified every two years.

After spyware and facial recognition, US President Donald Trump's immigration crackdown is adding a new tool to its arsenal. The US Immigration and Customs Department or ICE is now planning to spend up to 20 million US Dollars to purchase thousands of gloves designed to deliver painful electric shocks to suspects. In fact, the manufacturer prescribes that officers must complete a course to use these gloves and be re-certified every two years. It has also recommended that security forces should avoid touching areas like head, face, throat, chest and groin with these gloves. This is not all. The company warned that this tool shouldn't be used as punishment, torture and on high-risk populations such as children, pregnant women, elderly and disabled people. However, activists have expressed alarm at this plan as ICE is already facing criticism over their use of brute force against alleged illegal immigrants with little oversight or accountability. Protests originally erupted across America after 37-year old Renee Good was shot dead by ICE officer Jonathan Ross on January 7. This was followed by a series of such killings.

<p>The US Immigration and Customs Department is planning to spend up to $20 million to purchase gloves designed to deliver painful electric shocks to suspects. In fact, the manufacturer prescribes that officers must complete a course to use these gloves and be re-certified every two years.</p>

Trump to equip ICE agents with gloves that can give electric shock to 'illegal' immigrants | Gravitas

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Karnataka Bandh today: Are schools, banks, and hospitals open?

Al-Qaeda offshoot behind Red Fort blast that killed 11: UN Security Council body

Trump to equip ICE agents with gloves that can give electric shock | Gravitas