A major security breach has been reported at Bengaluru Central Jail after former MP and rape convict Prajwal Revanna was allegedly found using a mobile phone inside the high-security prison. The phone was reportedly recovered during a Central Crime Branch raid at the facility.

According to prison authorities, Revanna claimed that he had used the phone to contact his lawyer and family members. Officials also said the seized device contained numerous videos and that newspaper clippings were recovered from his possession.

Following the incident, the government suspended the jail's assistant superintendent, while the jail supervisor was served a show-cause notice. Fresh charges have also reportedly been filed against Revanna for possessing and using a prohibited device inside the prison.

The latest incident has once again raised questions over security arrangements and alleged VIP treatment at Bengaluru Central Jail, following previous controversies involving inmates using mobile phones and other prohibited facilities inside the prison.

Prajwal Revanna Caught Using Mobile Phone Inside Bengaluru Central Jail

Quick-commerce company Zepto has come under scrutiny after Karnataka’s Food Safety and Drug Administration shut a Zepto warehouse in Hoskote on the outskirts of Bengaluru following a surprise inspection.

Authorities reportedly observed several food safety violations, including non-compliant labelling, misbranding, unhygienic food handling and improper storage conditions.

Zepto said the inspection was routine and that the observations and recommendations shared by the food safety department would be addressed. The company also said it remains committed to maintaining food safety and hygiene standards.

The action comes amid a wider food safety crackdown in Karnataka. A three-day special inspection drive in Bengaluru recently uncovered violations at several upscale hotels, including expired food products, mislabelling, unhygienic handling, improper meat storage and inadequate segregation of vegetarian and non-vegetarian items.

Karnataka Cracks Down on Zepto | Bengaluru Warehouse Sealed Over Food Safety Violations

The Tamil Nadu Assembly has passed a resolution opposing delimitation, urging the Union government to permanently retain the existing 543 Lok Sabha seats based on the population figures of the 1971 Census.

The resolution, moved by Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Vijay, received support from the DMK, despite the party previously skipping Vijay’s all-party meeting on delimitation.

Vijay also called for the immediate implementation of 33% reservation for women in Parliament and state assemblies, arguing that the quota should be calculated on the existing 543 Lok Sabha seats.

The Tamil Nadu government has also taken strong positions on several other issues, including NEET, the proposed FCRA amendments, and the state’s anti-drug campaign.

Vijay Leads Tamil Nadu’s Delimitation Push | Assembly Seeks 543 Lok Sabha Seats

In this edition of WION World Is One, here are the latest major stories from India. The Federation of Indian Pilots has urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to establish an independent Civil Aviation Authority of India, citing the rapid expansion of the aviation sector and concerns raised by the International Civil Aviation Organization. The proposed statutory body would oversee aviation safety, airworthiness, licensing and consumer protection with administrative and financial autonomy.

Meanwhile, the BRICS Culture Ministers’ Meeting has concluded in Bhopal with the adoption of the Bhopal Declaration. Representatives from 14 countries, including BRICS members and partner countries, participated in discussions aimed at strengthening cultural cooperation.

In Manipur, protests were reported as the convoy of Chief Minister YK Khemchand Singh passed through Makan village. Hundreds of Naga and Meitei villagers reportedly waved black flags and protested along National Highway 2, demanding justice for six Naga civilians who were allegedly abducted and later found dead. Protesters have also raised concerns over delays in the investigation.

The Amarnath Yatra will be suspended from August 9 on both the Pahalgam and Baltal routes as authorities move to conclude the pilgrimage ahead of schedule. The decision has been taken amid forecasts of bad weather and to facilitate track restoration and maintenance work by the Border Roads Organisation. More than 4.8 lakh pilgrims have performed darshan at the shrine so far this year.

BRICS Culture Meet | Manipur Protest | Amarnath Yatra Halt | UPI Payment Update | Indian News 

The Indian government has proposed major amendments to the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act (FCRA), introducing stricter compliance requirements for NGOs, charitable trusts, educational institutions, and religious organizations that receive foreign donations.

The proposed changes include the creation of a designated authority to manage foreign-funded assets if an organization's FCRA registration is cancelled, surrendered, expires, or is not renewed. NGOs will also be required to disclose the ultimate source of foreign contributions, update operational details, and comply with expanded governance requirements.

The government says the amendments are aimed at improving transparency, strengthening accountability, and preventing misuse of foreign funds. However, opposition parties, civil society groups, and some international critics argue the proposals could expand executive control over NGO assets and operations.

India Proposes Major FCRA Changes | Tougher Rules for NGOs Receiving Foreign Funds

Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy met U.S. Ambassador to India Sergio Gor in New Delhi to discuss ways to strengthen cooperation between Telangana and the United States.

During the meeting, Revanth Reddy urged the U.S. side to increase visa interview slots and speed up visa processing. He also raised concerns related to H-1B visa renewals, visa stamping procedures, and the challenges faced by professionals from Telangana working in the United States.

The Chief Minister highlighted Telangana's investment potential in sectors such as information technology, artificial intelligence, life sciences, pharmaceuticals, startups, and advanced technologies, inviting greater American investment in the state. With more than one lakh students from Telangana studying in the United States, visa policies remain a key issue for many families in the state.

Telangana CM Revanth Reddy Meets US Ambassador, Seeks Faster H-1B Visa Processing

Student protests in Jharkhand have intensified as thousands continue demonstrating against alleged irregularities in JPSC and JSSC recruitment examinations. The movement, centered in Ranchi, has drawn nationwide attention, with protesters demanding transparency and accountability in government recruitment.

The Jharkhand government has formed a task force to engage with the students and asked them to nominate a five-member committee for discussions. However, the protesters have rejected closed-door negotiations and are insisting on a public dialogue with government representatives.

The protest, led by the JPSC-JSSC Reform Manch, has been ongoing at Jaipal Singh Munda Stadium since July 25. Activist Devendra Nath Mahto has been on an indefinite hunger strike since August 2, vowing to continue until the government accepts the students' demands. Following an appeal from activist Sonam Wangchuk, he agreed to drink water but continues his fast.

Jharkhand Student Protest Intensifies | Youth Demand Fair Recruitment Exams & Public Talks

The fallout from the NEET paper leak continues to reshape India's examination system. In a major move, Maharashtra has established 23 special fast-track courts to hear 203 pending examination malpractice cases, including paper leaks, recruitment exam fraud, HSC cheating, and other examination-related offenses.

The decision follows widespread public outrage over the NEET paper leak controversy, which triggered nationwide student protests and renewed calls for stronger action against exam fraud.

The Bombay High Court has directed the newly constituted courts to make every effort to complete trials within three months of the filing of charge sheets, aiming to ensure faster justice.

NEET Paper Leak Crackdown | Maharashtra Launches 23 Fast-Track Courts For Exam Fraud Cases

Welcome to today's Top India Headlines, covering the biggest developments from across the country.

Ahead of Independence Day celebrations, Delhi Police has imposed a ban on drones, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), paragliders, and other aerial platforms from August 2 to August 16. Authorities cited intelligence inputs warning that terrorists or anti-social elements could misuse such platforms to threaten national security.

In Jammu and Kashmir, a cloudburst struck the Doda-Ramban region, while continuous rainfall pushed the Chenab River to dangerous levels. Authorities opened two gates of the Baglihar Dam to regulate rising water inflows, and disaster response teams were deployed as flood alerts remained in effect.

In Bengaluru, Karnataka Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar launched the Freedom From Waste Campaign, urging citizens to participate in keeping the city clean. The campaign was inaugurated near the Kempegowda Statue at the Hebbal Flyover.

Meanwhile, Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta launched the Delhi Lakshmi Yojana portal. Under the scheme, eligible women will receive ₹2,500 per month in financial assistance. The Delhi Government has allocated ₹5,100 crore for the programme, which is expected to benefit around 17 lakh women.

Delhi Bans Drones Ahead Of Independence Day | J&K Cloudburst | Delhi Launches ₹2,500 Lakshmi Yojana

The fallout from the NEET paper leak controversy continues to reshape India's examination system, with Maharashtra establishing 23 special fast-track courts to handle 203 pending exam malpractice cases.

The newly created courts will hear cases involving paper leaks, recruitment examination fraud, HSC examination cheating, and other forms of examination malpractice. The move follows widespread outrage over the NEET paper leak and aims to ensure faster justice in cases affecting millions of students.

The Bombay High Court has directed the special courts to make every effort to complete trials within three months of filing the chargesheet, significantly accelerating the judicial process.

The development comes after the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Amendment Bill, 2026 received Presidential assent. The amended law introduces stricter punishments, including five to ten years of imprisonment and fines of up to ₹50 lakh for those using unfair means. For service providers involved in examination fraud, the maximum fine has been increased from ₹1 crore to ₹5 crore, while the debarment period has been doubled from four years to eight years.

NEET Paper Leak Fallout | Maharashtra Sets Up 23 Fast-Track Courts To Hear 203 Exam Fraud Cases

A fresh terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Kulgam district has heightened security concerns after the Pakistan-backed terror outfit The Resistance Front (TRF) claimed responsibility and threatened more attacks targeting non-local workers in the Valley.

The death toll has risen to two after an injured migrant worker succumbed to injuries at the Government Medical College, Anantnag. The victims were among migrant workers who came under indiscriminate firing by terrorists in the Kalamaria area of Kulgam. Both deceased workers were residents of Chhattisgarh.

According to Jammu and Kashmir Police, terrorists deliberately targeted non-local workers. Security officials believe the attack was carried out by hybrid terrorists with no prior criminal records. Following the incident, security forces launched a massive search operation, cordoned off the area, and heightened security across the Valley.

Jammu & Kashmir Terror Attack | Security Forces Launch Massive Operation In Kulgam

India's monsoon crisis has intensified after two cloudbursts struck Jammu and Kashmir within hours, triggering flash floods and damaging homes, shops, schools, and commercial establishments.

The first cloudburst hit the Chhatru area of Kishtwar district, while another struck Pahalipora village in Doda district, sending torrents of water and mud through residential areas. Emergency teams, including the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), police, and district authorities, launched rescue operations and safely evacuated residents. Authorities have reported no casualties so far, while damage assessments continue.

The latest incidents come as devastating floods continue across several Indian states. Assam remains the worst-affected state, with at least 82 flood-related deaths, while Odisha, Gujarat, Uttarakhand, Chhattisgarh, and Himachal Pradesh are also grappling with heavy rainfall and widespread flooding.

Cloudbursts Hit J&K As Monsoon Fury Intensifies | Flash Floods, Assam Death Toll Rises To 82

India has approved the Reserve Bank of India's proposal to begin large-scale field trials of polymer banknotes in ₹10 and ₹20 denominations. The RBI will print 2 billion polymer notes for testing to evaluate their durability, cost-effectiveness, and performance in circulation. Officials clarified that there is no plan to replace existing paper currency, with both polymer and paper notes expected to circulate together if the pilot succeeds. Polymer banknotes, already used in over 60 countries including Australia, the UK, and Canada, last significantly longer than conventional paper notes and offer improved resistance to wear, moisture, and dirt. The move revives a proposal first announced in 2012 and aims to improve the lifespan of Indian currency while reducing long-term currency management costs.

India Approves Polymer ₹10 & ₹20 Banknote Trials | RBI to Test 2 Billion Plastic Currency Notes

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

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

South India witnessed major developments today as Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Vijay reviewed the progress of the Chennai Metro Rail expansion project, aimed at improving connectivity and easing traffic congestion across Chennai.

In Andhra Pradesh, Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu directed officials to prepare for a potentially severe drought due to the anticipated impact of El Niño, stressing the need to protect farmers, secure drinking water supplies, and ensure crop insurance coverage.

Meanwhile, lakhs of devotees gathered for the Simhachalam Giri Pradakshina pilgrimage in Andhra Pradesh, while thousands participated in the annual Kallazhagar Temple Chariot Festival in Madurai, one of Tamil Nadu's most significant religious celebrations.

CM Vijay Reviews Chennai Metro | Andhra Braces for El Niño Impact | Temple Festivals Draw Lakhs

A heated debate over the Anti-Paper Leak Bill triggered massive disruptions in the Lok Sabha as Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi launched sharp attacks on the RSS and Union Home Minister Amit Shah. His remarks sparked strong objections from the Treasury benches, with Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju demanding that Rahul Gandhi either substantiate his allegations or apologize.

The debate quickly escalated into repeated protests and adjournments as opposition and ruling alliance MPs clashed over the education system, student protests, and the government's handling of examination reforms. The Opposition also continued to demand the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah in Parliament.

Rahul Gandhi vs BJP in Parliament | Anti-Paper Leak Bill Debate Sparks Massive Uproar | Amit Shah

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in the latest edition of Mann Ki Baat, highlighted India's achievements in defence, space, sports, and environmental conservation. He praised the commissioning of INS Mahendragiri, advances in missile systems, growing defence exports, and the successful private-sector launch of the Vikram-1 rocket.

The Prime Minister also reviewed the flood situation in Assam, assuring full central support for ongoing rescue and relief efforts. Meanwhile, former Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah announced that he will not contest the 2028 Assembly elections, citing his age and health.

PM Modi Highlights India's Defence & Space Growth | Assam Flood | Siddaramaiah's Big Announcement

In a major political development, Union Minister Pralhad Joshi has officially assumed additional charge of the Ministry of Education, following the resignation of Dharmendra Pradhan. The Centre moved swiftly to ensure continuity in the Education Ministry after weeks of unprecedented nationwide student protests. Pralhad Joshi, who continues to hold the portfolios of Consumer Affairs, Food & Public Distribution, and New & Renewable Energy, thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for entrusting him with the responsibility and pledged to discharge his duties with humility, dedication, and honesty. The appointment follows a month-long agitation led by the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) over alleged NEET paper leak and examination irregularities. The protest officially ended after the third round of talks between the Centre and CJP, during which the government accepted the protesters' key demands, including the resignation of the Education Minister, withdrawal of FIRs against protesters, and consideration of a five-point charter on examination reforms.

Pralhad Joshi Takes Over Education Ministry | Dharmendra Pradhan Resigns | CJP Ends Protest

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

Student protesters at Delhi's Jantar Mantar celebrated after Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation but said their movement is not over. Protesters called for deeper education reforms, accountability, and systemic changes, while political leaders, including AAP's Manish Sisodia, reacted to the development. The demonstrations ended after the government accepted key demands following weeks of protests.

Jantar Mantar protest ends in victory as students demand sweeping education system reforms

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

Reactions continue to pour in after the 37-day Jantar Mantar protest officially ended. Activist Sonam Wangchuk described the development as a "victory of democracy," praising India's youth for their peaceful movement. Political leaders across party lines also responded to Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation, while attention now shifts to Parliament, education reforms, and the government's next steps.

Wangchuk hails 'Victory of Democracy' as CJP ends historic Jantar Mantar protest 

Following the end of the Jantar Mantar protest, Sonam Wangchuk congratulated India's youth and CJP volunteers for maintaining peace throughout the movement. Calling it a victory for democracy, he urged protesters to remain humble in victory and emphasized that one minister's resignation alone cannot transform the nation. Wangchuk appealed for comprehensive education reforms, better governance, accountability, anti-corruption measures, and democratic reforms, while also raising concerns about Ladakh, Jammu & Kashmir, and environmental protection.

Sonam Wangchuk's powerful message after protest victory | Democracy, peace & education reforms