The Kerala government has formally closed the long-running vigilance case against Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan, bringing an investigation launched by the previous LDF government to an end. The case was linked to the Punarjani flood rehabilitation project, which aimed to support victims of the devastating 2018 Kerala floods. Authorities said there was no legal or factual basis to continue the investigation, describing the case as politically motivated. However, the opposition CPIM-led LDF has strongly criticized the decision, alleging that the UDF government granted Satheesan a clean chit despite evidence. The move has sparked a fresh political confrontation in Kerala, with both sides accusing each other of using investigations for political purposes.


Kerala Government Closes Vigilance Case Against CM V.D. Satheesan | LDF Slams UDF

A fresh political controversy has erupted in Tamil Nadu after the DMK accused TVK of colluding with the BJP following the police decision to deny permission for a statewide campaign against the National Education Policy (NEP) and Economically Weaker Sections (EWS) reservation.

DMK president MK Stalin alleged that TVK was acting in line with the BJP, while Dravidar Kazhagam criticized the protest ban, saying previous governments had allowed similar demonstrations. The organization has now postponed its campaign and announced it will challenge the decision through legal means.

DMK Accuses TVK of BJP Nexus After Protest Ban | Stalin Targets Vijay Over NEET Row

The Cauvery water dispute has taken a fresh political turn after Karnataka Chief Minister DK Shivakumar urged Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Vijay to postpone their proposed meeting scheduled for August 3.

The development follows a directive from the Cauvery Water Management Authority (CWMA) ordering Karnataka to release water to Tamil Nadu. Karnataka has argued that deficient rainfall, drought conditions, and concerns over drinking water supplies make it difficult to comply with the order.

The issue has triggered political reactions in both states. Karnataka has called an all-party meeting to discuss its next legal and political strategy, while protests have intensified over the water-sharing dispute. In Tamil Nadu, political parties have also stepped up pressure over the handling of the Cauvery issue.

Cauvery Water Dispute Escalates: Karnataka Urges Tamil Nadu CM Vijay to Postpone Talks

The alleged Ram Temple donation theft has emerged as a major political flashpoint ahead of the upcoming Uttar Pradesh Assembly elections.

Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav has intensified his attack on the BJP, accusing the ruling party of failing to protect devotees' donations while also linking the controversy to broader concerns over governance and exam paper leaks.

Meanwhile, the investigation into the alleged theft continues. The Supreme Court has directed the inclusion of a forensic auditor in the Special Investigation Team (SIT), while a special court has extended the judicial custody of the accused. The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust has also appointed a new administrator to oversee the temple's daily operations.

Ram Temple Donation Theft Row Heats Up Ahead of UP Polls | Akhilesh Yadav Targets BJP 

The Monsoon Session of Parliament witnessed another heated confrontation as the government and the opposition clashed over the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Amendment Bill.

The proposed legislation aims to strengthen India's anti-paper leak law through stricter punishments, faster investigations, and expedited trials. However, the opposition argued that tougher laws alone cannot restore confidence in the examination system without fixing administrative failures.

Parliament Erupts Over Anti-Paper Leak Bill | Opposition Targets Government on Student Protests

Former government bus driver Minar Mondal was arrested after the seizure of ₹28.5 crore from his residence. He is a relative of Tulu Mondal, who is an alleged close associate of TMC leader Anubrata Mondal.  On the other hand, ED conducted raids on premises linked to an illegal coal mining network

₹28.5 Crore in Cash & Gold Bars Seized from Ex-Government Bus Driver's Home in West Bengal

The Tamil Nadu Directorate of Vigilance and Anti-Corruption (DVAC) has registered a criminal case against DMK leader Senthil Balaji in connection with an alleged multi-crore TASMAC liquor scam. The investigation relates to alleged irregularities in the awarding of bar licences, transport tenders, procurement, and bottling operations between 2021 and 2025.

Apart from Senthil Balaji, the case also names his personal assistant, a former TASMAC managing director, senior regional managers, and others. The DVAC alleges a criminal conspiracy that caused financial losses to the state exchequer.

Senthil Balaji Faces Fresh Corruption Case as DVAC Cracks Down on TASMAC Scam

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has accused Union Home Minister Amit Shah of authorizing police action against student protesters and urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to remove him from office. The allegations, made during a press conference following heated exchanges in Parliament, have intensified the political confrontation over the nationwide student protests and the anti-paper leak legislation. The government has rejected the accusations, calling them baseless and demanding evidence.

Rahul Gandhi Accuses Amit Shah of Ordering Police Firing on Students, Demands Resignation

Welcome to Wion Dispatch. Here are the biggest stories making headlines from India and around the world.

The government has responded to Rahul Gandhi's allegations against Union Home Minister Amit Shah over the student protest crackdown. Union Minister Jitendra Singh rejected the claims, saying only authorised officials such as magistrates can issue such orders.

Meanwhile, tensions continue in West Asia as Israel accuses Hezbollah of violating the ceasefire after an alleged drone attack on an Israeli vehicle in southern Lebanon. Iran's Parliament Deputy Speaker has also warned that the Strait of Hormuz will not return to its previous status, stressing Iran's control over the strategic waterway.

In Washington, the US Senate advances legislation targeting Russia's energy revenues, including tougher sanctions and measures against countries buying Russian oil and gas.

Spain continues battling a major wildfire near Madrid, with Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez saying the next few hours will be crucial.

In sports, FIFA President Gianni Infantino has proposed financial incentives for member associations backing a controversial plan involving stakes in major competitions.

Rahul Gandhi vs Government Over Student Protest Row | Hezbollah Ceasefire Clash |Iran Hormuz Warning

Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi launched a sharp attack on the government over the July 20 student protests, alleging excessive use of force against demonstrators. Addressing a press conference, Gandhi claimed students were beaten, targeted with pellet guns, and intimidated through surveillance measures.

Rahul Gandhi questioned the role of Union Home Minister Amit Shah, alleging that forces involved in the action report to the Home Ministry. He demanded that Shah take responsibility and called for his resignation along with an independent probe monitored by a Supreme Court-appointed committee.

Rahul Gandhi Accuses Amit Shah Over Student Protest Crackdown | Demands Resignation And Probe

The Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) has threatened to resume nationwide protests after the Supreme Court allowed investigations into FIRs filed during the anti-exam paper leak agitation to continue. While the court directed authorities not to take coercive action against eligible student protesters and ordered the preservation of CCTV footage and electronic evidence, it did not order the withdrawal of existing cases.

CJP leaders allege that the interim order contradicts assurances given by the central government during negotiations that led to the suspension of protests. Founder Abhijeet Dipke accused authorities of targeting students, while party spokesperson Saurav Das warned of fresh nationwide demonstrations if the government's commitments are not honored. Meanwhile, several states have begun withdrawing cases against eligible student protesters.

CJP Threatens Fresh Nationwide Protest After Supreme Court Order on Student Protest Cases

Union Minister Pralhad Joshi has officially assumed charge of the Ministry of Education following the resignation of Dharmendra Pradhan. The appointment comes after weeks of nationwide student protests over the alleged NEET paper leak and examination irregularities. Joshi will continue to hold his existing portfolios of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution, and New and Renewable Energy, in addition to the Education Ministry. Speaking after taking charge, he thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for placing his trust in him and pledged to discharge his new responsibilities with dedication, humility and honesty.

Pralhad Joshi takes charge of Education Ministry after Dharmendra Pradhan resigns | NEET Protest 

The second week of Parliament's Monsoon Session is expected to witness intense political confrontation after the first week was disrupted by nationwide student protests over the alleged NEET paper leak. Although the protests have ended following the resignation of former Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, the opposition is preparing to raise fresh questions over the alleged use of force by Delhi Police during the July 20 protest march.

Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi has written to Union Home Minister Amit Shah, seeking answers on the alleged deployment of pellet guns and plainclothes personnel against protesting students. Congress and other opposition parties are also expected to raise issues including the alleged Ram Janmabhoomi embezzlement case, the proposed India–US trade agreement, agricultural concerns, ethanol policy, and fresh protests planned by transport operators.

Parliament Monsoon Session Set for Showdown | Rahul Gandhi Targets Amit Shah | Kargil Vijay Diwas 

In a major political development, Union Minister Pralhad Joshi has been given the additional charge of the Ministry of Education following the resignation of Dharmendra Pradhan. President Droupadi Murmu, acting on the advice of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, approved the appointment to ensure continuity in the Education Ministry.

The change comes after weeks of unprecedented student protests over alleged examination irregularities and the NEET paper leak controversy. The month-long agitation, led by the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP), concluded after the third round of talks with the Centre, where the government accepted key demands, including the withdrawal of FIRs against protesters and consideration of a five-point education reform charter.

Pralhad Joshi takes charge of Education Ministry after Dharmendra Pradhan resigns | CJP protest ends

Following weeks of nationwide student protests, Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan resigned, leading to the end of the CJP-led agitation at Delhi's Jantar Mantar. After the third round of talks, the government accepted CJP's key demands, including withdrawing cases against protesters and considering a five-point education reform charter. Opposition leaders, including Rahul Gandhi, Mallikarjun Kharge, Arvind Kejriwal, Manish Sisodia, Supriya Sule, and activist Sonam Wangchuk, welcomed the development while urging comprehensive reforms, greater transparency, and accountability in India's education system.

Dharmendra Pradhan Resigns as CJP Calls Off Protest | Opposition Demands Education Reforms

The Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) has officially announced the withdrawal of its 37-day protest at Jantar Mantar after the government accepted all of its key demands. CJP leaders called the movement a victory for dignity, democracy, and peaceful protest while urging demonstrators to return home peacefully. The organization also condemned violence, blamed anti-social elements for attempts to disrupt the agitation, and emphasized the need for long-term reforms in India's education system.

CJP ends 37-day Jantar Mantar protest after government accepts all demands | Neet Protest 

The Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) has officially withdrawn its protest after the government accepted its key demands, marking the end of the historic agitation at Jantar Mantar. While protesters celebrated their victory, leaders emphasized that they will continue to hold the government accountable for education reforms and examination transparency. Political observers are now watching whether this student-led movement will shape India's future political and educational landscape.

Dharmendra Pradhan Resignation: CJP ends protest, focus shifts to education reforms

Senior journalist and Business Standard contributing editor Aditi Phadnis analyzes the political implications of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation following weeks of nationwide protests over the NEET paper leak controversy. She discusses the impact on the BJP government, the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) movement, the remaining protest demands, possible cabinet reshuffle, and the urgent need for reforms in India's education system. Watch the full expert analysis on one of the biggest political developments of the year.

Dharmendra Pradhan resignation: Expert explains BJP's next move & CJP protest impact

Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan has resigned after weeks of nationwide student protests over the alleged NEET paper leak controversy. His resignation comes ahead of the third round of talks between the Centre and the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP). Celebrations erupted at Jantar Mantar as political leaders across parties reacted, while attention now shifts to education reforms and greater transparency in India's examination system.

Dharmendra Pradhan Quits as education minister | Celebrations erupt at Jantar Mantar

Opposition leaders have reacted strongly to the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, calling it a major victory for students, democracy, and public accountability. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi said the development sends a message that people can bring change by standing together, while other opposition leaders welcomed the resignation and called for comprehensive education reforms. The political debate now

Opposition hails Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation as victory for students and democracy

A major political development unfolds as Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan resigns after weeks of nationwide protests over the alleged NEET paper leak controversy. The resignation came after sustained demonstrations led by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), student groups, and opposition parties, who had made the education minister's removal from the Union Cabinet their central demand.

Live visuals from Jantar Mantar, New Delhi, show celebrations among protesters following the announcement. The movement, which began with demonstrations in Delhi, gained momentum as student support increased and demands for accountability and examination reforms grew stronger.

Dharmendra Pradhan Resigns After Nationwide NEET Protest | Jantar Mantar Celebrations L

The resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan has triggered major political reactions across India, with protesters at Jantar Mantar calling it a victory for their movement. According to reports from the protest site, the atmosphere changed after the announcement, with supporters celebrating and raising slogans. The Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) founder Abhijeet Dipke said the resignation was only the first step, while protesters continued to demand further action, including compensation for affected families and reforms in India's examination system.

Dharmendra Pradhan resigns after NEET protest pressure | CJP demands more reforms at Jantar Mantar

Activist Sonam Wangchuk has ended his 26-day hunger strike after receiving written assurances from the government regarding peaceful protesters and discussions on reforms linked to the NEET paper leak controversy. Despite Wangchuk ending his fast, the CJP has announced that the protest will continue until its demands, including the resignation of the Union Education Minister and reforms in the examination system, are addressed. The government has also indicated it is considering compensation for families affected by the paper leak controversy and plans to introduce stricter legislation against examination paper leaks.

NEET Protest: Sonam Wangchuk ends fast after government assurances, CJP continues agitation

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has announced the formation of fast-track courts to ensure swift justice in NEET paper leak cases, saying that the future of India's youth cannot be compromised. His remarks come as the CJP-led protest in New Delhi intensifies, with fresh clashes reported between protesters and police near Jantar Mantar. Heavy security has been deployed, multiple Delhi Metro stations remain closed, and protesters continue demanding the resignation of the Education Minister.

PM Modi announces fast-track courts over NEET Paper Leak | CJP protest intensifies in Delhi

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