In-House Matters : A Complete Handbook for the Modern General Counsel, published this month by OakBridge Publishing, tells the story of how the corporate legal department in India became a seat of business decision-making, and of what the job now demands of the people who hold it. New book shows how the company lawyer became a business leader Counselect . The rise the book describes tracks the transformation of Indian business itself. Liberalisation brought the multinationals, and with them a compliance burden no external firm could carry at the pace required. The regulatory landscape thickened around competition law, data protection, insolvency, and capital markets. Cut to today, when global corporations are building legal capability centres in India, artificial intelligence is touching every part of the work, and boards are treating the General Counsel as the person who holds commercial ambition, regulatory exposure, and reputational risk in view at once. In-House Matters draws on interviews with thirty General Counsel at multinationals, Indian conglomerates, and fast-scaling start-ups, and on the authors' own experience on either side of the function. Across ten chapters, working through frameworks, case studies, and war stories, it moves from a lawyer's first hundred days in the role through team building, contracts, disputes, crisis, budgets, and technology, to the point at which a General Counsel earns a seat at the table. Rao says: Today, the General Counsel is in the room while the big calls are still live: an acquisition, a new market, a risk the company is weighing up. People still turn to the GC when a crisis breaks out, but they are also expected to shape decisions. It is a little like a footballer covering the whole length of the pitch: dropping back to defend your own goal one moment, getting forward to help score the next. We intend for the book to cover the whole range of this role. Lukose adds: The evolution of the General Counsel is one of the most important business stories in India of the past three decades, and one of the least told. We have spent years working with organisations on legal talent and department restructuring, and we kept meeting exceptional in-house lawyers who underestimated their own reach. A General Counsel today is a business leader who happens to have trained in law. We wrote In-House Matters to give that role the handbook it deserves. Alongside that story, the book is also a practical guide to how a legal department is designed and run. Menon says: Most of my work with General Counsel has been centred on what it takes to build a proactive legal function: how you structure a team, what to take on, what to let go. Increasingly those questions include what to hand to technology and AI. I have watched people do this well and badly, usually with nothing to guide them. In-House Matters is the map we wanted to give them a way through the knotty questions of people, processes, and platforms . In-House Matters launches with invitation-only evenings in Mumbai (23 July), Bengaluru (12 August), and Delhi (7 September). Each gathers around 200 board members, C-suite executives, and General Counsel, and pairs a panel discussion with the three authors on the opportunities and challenges of the in-house role today with an extended hour of conversation. In-House Matters has drawn praise from some of India's most distinguished corporate, regulatory, and academic voices. For every company builder. - Nandan Nilekani , Co-founder and Chairman, Infosys; Founding Chairman, UIDAI (Aadhaar) At its heart, this is a book about leadership, institution-building, and the evolving role of the General Counsel in shaping both. - Amitabh Kant , Former G20 Sherpa, Government of India; Former CEO, NITI Aayog Authoritative and lucid. - K.V. Kamath , Chairman, Jio Financial Services; Founding President, New Development Bank (BRICS Bank) A no-nonsense, jargon-free playbook for the modern General Counsel. - Justice B.N. Srikrishna , Former Judge of the Supreme Court of India The first book I've seen that really gives the role the seriousness it deserves. - Keki Mistry , Interim Chairman, HDFC Bank; Former Vice Chairman & CEO, HDFC Ltd An insightful guide to the General Counsel's journey from compliance guardian to business strategist. - U.K. Sinha , Former Chairman, SEBI A book about a role that opens paths for a new generation of leaders, women prominent among them. - Anita George , CEO, ProsperETE; Independent Director, Tata Sons A compelling case for the General Counsel as the linchpin of the corporate management framework. - Umakanth Varottil , Professor of Corporate Law, National University of Singapore
Paperworld Delhi from 30 July 1 August 2026 at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi. The co-located exhibitions will bring together more than 850 exhibitors, 6,000 brands and 30,000+ products, creating an unrivalled sourcing destination for the gifting, stationery, paper, office and corporate solutions industries while offering buyers a broader product portfolio under one roof. Gifts World Expo and Paperworld Spanning an extensive product spectrum, Gifts World Expo Delhi will showcase exciting gifting solutions for festivals, weddings, celebrations, corporate, luxury, customised and promotional solutions. The show will present an extensive product range covering categories like handicrafts, home dcor & home textiles, awards & rewards, confectionery, beverage & gourmet, bags & travel accessories, houseware & kitchen appliances, wellness, beauty & grooming, amongst others. Complementing this, Paperworld Delhi will present stationery, writing instruments, office and school supplies, art and craft materials, paper and paper products, educational solutions, sustainable stationery, packaging innovations, workplace essentials, premium pens and more. Together, the exhibitions respond to growing buyer demand for innovative, branded, personalised and value-added products while enabling businesses to discover new suppliers, product innovations and market opportunities across interconnected industry segments. Recognised as Indias leading B2B exhibition for gifting solutions, Gifts World Expo Delhi has built a strong legacy over 31 successful editions, serving as the preferred sourcing platform for festive collections, corporate gifting, customised solutions, premium gifting and much more. Over the years, the expo has brought together manufacturers, importers, exporters, wholesalers, distributors, retailers, e-commerce sellers, and institutional buyers, continually reflecting evolving consumer preferences and retail trends. The upcoming edition of Gifts World Expo Delhi will feature China Pavilion featuring international innovations. Some of the featured brands include Adidas, Boat, Flipkart, Hawkins, ITC, Jack & Jones, Maxfresh, Milton, Powerplus, Prestige, Safari, Swiss Military, Wonderchef, Zebronics and more. Building on the established legacy of Paperworld globally, with five successful editions in Mumbai, the launch of Paperworld Delhi marks a significant expansion of one of the worlds most recognised exhibition brands for stationery. Designed to serve the growing North Indian market, the show will strengthen business opportunities across manufacturing, retail, education, corporate procurement and distribution while connecting the businesses and entrepreneurial communities. Paperworld Delhi will feature brands like: DOMS Industries Limited, Figo Impex, G&G Global, KGOC Global LLP (KANGARO), Linc Limited, Luxor Writing Instrument Pvt Ltd, Saino Pen & Plastic Pvt Ltd, and William Penn Pvt Ltd, among others. Commenting on the upcoming exhibitions , Ms Himani Gulati, Director, MEX Exhibitions Pvt Ltd, said, Gifts World Expo has consistently evolved as a leading sourcing and networking business trade fair platform bringing together manufacturers, suppliers, brands and buyers from across the country. As the industry continues to diversify with growing demand for gifting products, Gifts World Expo offers businesses an ideal platform to showcase innovations and discover the emerging trends and expand business network. This year, the launch of Paperworld Delhi, further complements the visitor experience, creating greater opportunities for cross-industry engagement while strengthening the overall value proposition for the participating companies and business visitor, alike. Likewise, Mr Raj Manek, Executive Director & Board Member, Messe Frankfurt Asia Holdings Ltd, remarked, The launch of Paperworld Delhi marks an important milestone in strengthening the stationery industry, particularly in the North Indian market. Following five successful editions in Mumbai and backed by the strength of the global Paperworld portfolio, Delhi is a natural next step in expanding the brands presence in one of the Indias most significant business markets. Along with Gifts World Expo legacy for gifting solutions, the upcoming co-located shows will create a stronger, more comprehensive sourcing platform offering exhibitors access to the industries enabling buyers to discover a wider range of products, innovations and business opportunities under one roof. The co-location of the two exhibitions creates a powerful business ecosystem by bringing together complementary industries with overlapping buyer segments. Corporate procurement professionals, retailers, distributors, wholesalers, exporters, e-commerce platforms, educational institutions, hospitality buyers and modern trade will benefit from access to complementary product categories beyond their traditional markets. Beyond business networking and product discovery, the exhibition will also host an engaging programme of Gift Talks and Paper Talks, bringing together industry leaders, designers, retailers, brand owners and market experts to discuss emerging consumer trends, sustainability, retail transformation, branding, packaging, innovations and evolving workplace and education solutions. Thoughtful panel discussions led by industry experts as well as interactive workshops in gifting and art and craft, will encourage meaningful dialogue, exchange of ideas and industry collaboration across all show days. To enhance the visitor experience, the show floor will present dedicated zones including a Start-up & Innovation Hub to discover fresh ideas, explore innovations at the Discovery Hub, learn about sustainable solutions at the Sustainable Innovation Hub and Unwind and connect at the Entertainment Zone, designed to create networking opportunities in a relaxed setting. The dedicated networking spaces, interactive experiences and access to two complementary industries under one roof, will drive valuable partnerships, conversations and business opportunities. Industry associations supporting Gifts World Expo Delhi include Corporate Gifts Association of India (CGAI), Handloom Handicrafts Exporters Welfare Association (HHEWA), Sourcing Professionals Alliance (SPA), National Jute Board (NJB). Supporting association for Paperworld Delhi includes The Tamil Nadu Pen Manufacturers and Dealers Association, Delhi Pen Dealers and Manufacturers Association, Pen and Stationery Association of India Mumbai. Gifts World Expo Delhi and Paperworld Delhi are jointly organised by MEX Exhibitions Pvt Ltd and Messe Frankfurt Trade Fairs India and bring two established market-leading brands under a single roof thereby offering a comprehensive product showcase, international participation, business networking opportunities and knowledge-driven engagements.The co-located shows are poised to become one of North India's most significant B2B exhibitions for the gifting and stationery industries. Press information and photographic material: giftsworldexpo.com/del/ paperworldnewdelhi.in.messefrankfurt.com/newdelhi/en.html The strategic collaboration between Messe Frankfurt Trade Fairs India Pvt Ltd and MEX Exhibitions Pvt Ltd brings together Messe Frankfurts global exhibition leadership and MEXs extensive experience in organizing successful trade shows across India. By combining international best practices with deep industry relationships and market expertise, the partnership aims to create world-class platforms that foster business networking, industry growth, innovation, and market expansion. Background Information on MEX Exhibitions www.mexexhibits.com/#about Background information on Messe Frankfurt www.messefrankfurt.com/background-information
Rs 17.41 lakh penalty imposed due to error in ITR filed by junior staff in CA firm; Here's how affidavit from the CA firm's owner helps taxpayer get relief from penalty in ITAT Mumbai. Know how taxpayer won case in ITAT Mumbai
Caught on camera: Aishwarya Rai, Abhishek Bachchans rare moment
Mumbai: For months, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan and Abhishek Bachchan have been at the centre of separation rumours. While the couple has chosen to remain silent and rarely shares pictures together on social media, a fresh photo of the two from New York has now caught everyones attention. The candid selfie has quickly gone viral, leaving Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Bangladeshi Intruder Arrested at Mumbai Airport with Fake Documents
Mumbai, July 27: Mumbai police have arrested a 36-year-old Bangladeshi national at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport for allegedly traveling on a fake Indian passport. The accused has been identified as Babu Biswas, also known as Tapas Biswas. Immigration officials became suspicious of his Indian passport when they noticed his accent closely resembled the language ... Read more Bangladeshi Intruder Arrested at Mumbai Airport with Fake Documents
Kartik's Naagzilla completes filming; makers wrap with cake
Kartik Aaryan's fantasy comedy 'Naagzilla' has wrapped shooting, with the final Mumbai schedule completed on July 26. Ravi Kishan, Mrighdeep Singh Lamba and team celebrated with a cake, coinciding with Lamba's birthday. Aaryan had finished earlier. Produced by Dharma Productions and Mahaveer Jain Films, 'Naagzilla' releases in cinemas on February 12, 2027.
Salman Khans Bigg Boss 20 to begin on this date: Source
Mumbai: The countdown to Bigg Boss 20 has officially begun. While the makers unveiled the shows official logo last week, fresh reports now suggest that the milestone season is all set to premiere on September 6, with Salman Khan returning as the host. According to the latest buzz, Bigg Boss 20 is expected to kick Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Don't make citizens run from pillar to post: FM Sitharaman calls out laidback governance
Nirmala Sitharaman told Income Tax officers not to make entitled citizens chase routine services. She used the department's own delays and Mumbai land issues to press for faster, cleaner administration.
Delhi HC slams Kala Hiran producer in Salman Khan case
Mumbai: The Delhi High Court has directed the removal of social media links related to the upcoming film Kala Hiran: The Battle for Legacy from X, formerly Twitter, and YouTube. The Delhi High Court has reprimanded the films producer, Amit Jani and told his counsel that he seemed to be drawing confidence from the fact Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Gold rate today: Gold prices saw an increase on Monday, July 27, 2026, across major cities. The India Bullion and Jewellers Association provided indicative rates for various gold purities. Consumers should check current rates before purchasing gold jewellery.
Raunaq Rajani alleges wife's rib was fractured by Mumbai Police
Raunaq Rajani, a comedian, asserts that police brutality occurred during a protest last week, leading to his wife's fractured rib while being detained. He alleges that officers physically assaulted her inside the detention bus. To support their claims of excessive force, Rajani has released video evidence. Together, they have filed a formal complaint with the Shivaji Park police regarding the matter.
Top 7 finalists of Lock Upp 2, Shilpa Shinde out from the race
Mumbai: Lock Upp 2, hosted by Riteish Deshmukh and Farah Khan, continues to keep reality TV fans hooked with its unexpected twists and dramatic eliminations. Following the much-talked-about re-entry of Yogesh Rawat and Harshad Chopda, the competition has become even more intense as the show inches closer to its grand finale. Lock Upp 2 eliminations Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
'Still Overwhelmed': Rhiya Ahir Opens Up To NDTV On Viral Mumbai Protest Moment
On July 22, Ahir was seen blocking a police van carrying detained students during protests demanding the resignation of Dharmendra Pradhan as Education Minister over alleged examination irregularities.
Yash greets fans with a smile, patiently poses for pictures at airport
After returning to Mumbai from Ramayana promotions at San Diego Comic-Con, Yash took time to pose for selfies with fans at the airport. The actor patiently interacted with admirers before heading home, once again winning praise for his warm gesture
IMD warns of torrential rain, thunderstorms across several states today
According to the latest IMD bulletin, the next 14 hours are expected to be particularly critical, with heavy rain and severe weather likely to affect several regions
Gold and silver prices today, 24 July: Check the latest 24K, 22K gold and 999 silver retail rates across Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata and other major Indian cities, along with MCX market updates.
US: 2 dead, 5 injured in shooting at Seattle's Bite of Seattle festival
Police launched an investigation into the incident and urged the public to avoid the area near the Space Needle, where the shooting occurred
Netanyahu vows to address UN despite NYC Mayor Zohran Mamdani's opposition
After Mamdani called him a war criminal and said he was not welcome in New York, Netanyahu accused the mayor of aligning with Hamas murderers and supporting the October 7 attack on the Israeli public
Yemen PM demands firmer global stance against Houthi maritime attacks
Zindani stressed that these practices extend beyond Yemen by threatening global supply chains, freedom of navigation, and international efforts aimed at achieving peace and stability
We have far more munitions: Trump refutes reports of ammunition shortage
In a statement to The Wall Street Journal, Trump rejected claims that dwindling munitions pose a problem for US defence capabilities, asserting, we have far more munitions than anyone in the world, and far more than we need
Any attack on Iran always comes with a cost: Iraninan diplomat warns Ukraine
Zelenskyy has attacked an Iranian commercial vessel, killing a sailor. A blatant UN Charter violation done at Israel's behest to drag Europe into its war, Araghchi said
Amit Shah backs PM Modi's task force on exam reforms
Union Home Minister Amit Shah said the high-powered task force constituted by Prime Minister Narendra Modi under Nandan Nilekani will strengthen examination reforms and prevent paper leaks. He said the Centre is committed to ensuring a transparent examination system while promising strict punishment for those involved in exam fraud.
Mohan Bhagwat says LGBTQ+ people are part of society
RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat said the LGBTQ+ community is an integral part of society and should not be ostracised. Speaking at an event in Hyderabad, he said people of diverse sexual orientations have the right to live with dignity and compassion, while also calling for cooperation and equality between men and women.
Rijiju urges MPs to support anti-paper leak Bill discussion
Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju has urged all MPs to participate in Monday's discussion on the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Amendment Bill, 2026. The proposed legislation seeks to strengthen the anti-paper leak law through stricter penalties, fast-track courts and time-bound investigations and trials.
Iran conflict widens despite pause in US strikes
The conflict involving Iran widened over the weekend despite a pause in US strikes, with Yemen's Iran-backed Houthis targeting Saudi oil installations along the Red Sea and Tehran accusing Ukraine of attacking one of its vessels in the Caspian Sea. Meanwhile, President Donald Trump signalled a preference for diplomacy over further military advances
Typhoon Noul hits China; floods leave 10 dead
Typhoon Noul, the strongest storm to hit China this year, made landfall in Guangdong province early Sunday, bringing heavy rain and gale-force winds. Meanwhile, rain-triggered flash floods killed 10 people in Gansu, prompting authorities to activate a Level-IV national disaster relief emergency response for Guangdong.
Cancer-prone pet gecko offers new hope for tumour research
A rare leopard gecko known as the lemon frost morph could provide scientists with a powerful new model for studying how cancer develops and spreads. Around 80 per cent of these pet geckos develop aggressive tumours, offering researchers fresh insights into why some species are highly susceptible to cancer while others rarely develop the disease.
Mid-Day Opinion: Indias education system needs an overhaul
This is easier said than done, considering that faculty, certainly not all of them, though, have been involved in some paper leaks themselves
Mid-Day Opinion: Eating out is finally safe
Thanks to the efficiency of Maharashtras Food and Drug Administration, we are all in a better, more hygienic place
Srikkanth backs Siraj for 2027 World Cup
Mumbai, July 25:Former India captain Krishnamachari Srikkanth has thrown his weight behind fast bowler Mohammed Sirajs inclusion in Indias squad for the 2027 ICC ODI World Cup, saying the seamers bowling style will be ideally suited to the conditions in South Africa. The 2027 World Cup, to be jointly hosted by South Africa, Zimbabwe and []
Tej Pratap Yadav sent to judicial custody over Bihar bandh
Former Bihar minister Tej Pratap Yadav was sent to judicial custody after being arrested in connection with enforcing a statewide bandh called by students' unions over the NEET paper leak. He was produced before a Patna court, which remanded him to Beur Central Jail, his lawyer said.
Rajnath Singh rules out talks with Pakistan beyond PoK
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said India will hold no talks with Pakistan except on Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (PoK), accusing Islamabad of making terrorism a part of its state policy. Speaking at the Kargil War Memorial, he said Operation Sindoor demonstrated India's ability to respond decisively to cross-border terrorism.
NDMC begins clean-up after Jantar Mantar protest ends
The New Delhi Municipal Corporation (NDMC) launched a large-scale clean-up operation at Jantar Mantar after the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) called off its protest. Officials said nearly 60 metric tonnes of waste are expected to be cleared using sanitation workers, mechanised equipment and heavy vehicles deployed overnight.
Sarai Kale Khan already chokes by 5.30pm daily, Delhi-Mumbai expressway opening could make it worse
The Sarai Kale Khan area is grappling with extreme traffic congestion that is likely to worsen with the launch of the Delhi-Mumbai Expressway. To address this, traffic police propose measures such as road expansion and better bus protocols to mitigate the gridlock. The areas complicated merging points present serious risks to commuters.
Petrol, Diesel Prices On July 27: Check New Fuel Rates In Mumbai, Delhi And More
On Friday, Brent crude settled nearly 4% lower at $96.78 per barrel, while US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude declined 3% to $89.31 per barrel.
FM Sitharaman directs Income Tax Deptt to work for benefit of common people
Mumbai, Jul 26:Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Sunday urged the Income Tax department to work for the benefit of common people without making them run from pillar to post. She also went public with her disappointment at the laidback nature of government departments, which leads to illegal occupation or encroachments on government lands and underlined the need for integrity in conduct from all officials. Citing the challenges faced by the department in getting permissions to construct a building in the Nariman Point business district, which she inaugurated on Sunday, Sitharaman said these experiences, despite serving in the Indian Revenue Service (IRS), would have given them an idea of what the common man goes through. An IRS officer has the name of the Income Tax department behind him, a powerful force to frighten people, Sitharaman reminded, adding that despite this, the officials had to run from pillar to post to get clearances from authorities to proceed with work on the 13-floor building. Can this (experience) incentivise you to understand the position of a common citizen when he approaches you? Don't make them run from pillar to post where your authority is required; do the work for them, the FM said. The minister was quick to say that she is not asking the officials to break the rules or do something out of the way for the common citizens but rued that it takes a lot of effort in this country for people to get their rightful claims. The land parcel on which Aaykar Sindhu, the 1.13 lakh sq ft building, is built, had been with the I-T department since 1973, Sitharaman said, adding that despite this, illegal occupations had sprouted up on the land. The fact that you led it to have occupations, illegal occupation, shows somewhere in our governance, we are too laid back. It is somebody's job to take care of our assets, and when it is encroached, we say, oh, we have the land, but we can't build it, she said. Sitharaman also promised to look into the issue of many of the I-T officials not staying in official accommodations in Mumbai and Navi Mumbai areas, hinting that half of them do not enjoy such a facility and also travel for long to get to workplaces. Stating that she would prefer government-to-government transfer of lands for the purpose, Sitharaman assured that she will facilitate the quick transfer of lands and other aspects like getting the permissions, building, dealing with CPWD (Central Public Works Department), assigning contracts and tenders will be the job I-T officials will have to perform. Get it all done at the earliest so that we do not get into the second half of the 21st century with scattered office spaces, rental accommodation in a city, which is fast growing and expect to pay rents or lease rental at phenomenal rates, she said. She particularly mentioned state-run BSNL, asking officials to get the telco's land and promised to speak with her counterpart minister. Meanwhile, she also used the opportunity to underline the importance of integrity in the discharge of a critical work like tax collection for the country. Integrity is the one and only principle I will advocate to each one of you, she said.
The Journey of Ministerial Accountability
Every nation is remembered not only for its economic progress or military strength, but also for the values that guide its public life. After Independence, India adopted the Westminster system of parliamentary democracy and with it a noble tradition of ministerial accountability. The principle was simple: while civil servants ran the administration, the minister in charge accepted the ultimate responsibility for both its achievements and its failures. Public office was regarded not as a privilege to enjoy, but as a trust to honour. For the first few decades after Independence, this principle lent Indian democracy a distinct moral strength. The generation that had led the freedom movement believed that the credibility of institutions depended as much on ethical conduct as on constitutional authority. Even in Jammu & Kashmir, despite deep political differences with New Delhi, many people admired the personal integrity, simplicity and public conduct of several national leaders. Political disagreements existed, but respect for character often transcended them. That culture, however, did not remain unchanged. Looking back over nearly eight decades of independent India, one can clearly trace a gradual transformation in the understanding of ministerial accountability. The finest embodiment of that ideal was Lal Bahadur Shastri. In September 1956, while serving as Railway Minister, Shastri offered to resign after the Mahbubnagar railway accident. Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru declined the offer, convinced that Shastri could not be held personally responsible for an operational failure. But just two months later, another devastating railway accident occurred at Ariyalur in Tamil Nadu, claiming more than 140 lives. Shastri once again tendered his resignation, this time insisting that it be accepted. There was no allegation of corruption against him. No commission had found him negligent. Yet Shastri believed that such a tragedy, occurring under his charge, imposed a moral obligation upon him to step down. Nehru accepted the resignation while making it abundantly clear that his faith in Shastris honesty and competence remained unshaken. That episode became one of the defining moments of Indian parliamentary democracy. Shastris resignation was not an admission of guilt; it was an affirmation of responsibility. It conveyed a powerful message that authority and accountability were inseparable. In those days, resignation was never considered a sign of weakness. On the contrary, it reinforced public confidence in democratic institutions. A minister who accepted responsibility enhanced the credibility of the government rather than diminished it. Shastris example influenced public life for many years. Finance Minister T. T. Krishnamachari resigned following the LIC-Mundhra controversy. Perhaps the last major example of this tradition before the turn of the century came in 1999, when Railway Minister Nitish Kumar resigned after the Gaisal railway disaster. His resignation was widely viewed as an extension of the standard set by Shastri more than four decades earlier. Even in 2000 and 2017, Railway Ministers Mamta Benerjee and Suresh Prabhu publicly offered to resign after a series of train accidents, acknowledging that a ministers could not remain indifferent to repeated failures in their department. These examples represented voluntary accountability. Some resignations were accepted, others were not. What mattered was that the ministers themselves felt answerable to the nation and were prepared to relinquish office if circumstances demanded. There was, however, another category of resignations. These came not from an immediate acceptance of moral responsibility but under the weight of political, parliamentary or judicial pressure. Among the prominent examples were the resignations of Defence Minister V. K. Krishna Menon after Indias defeat in the 1962 war with China, Home Minister Shivraj Patil following the Mumbai terror attacks, Telecom Minister A. Raja during the 2G spectrum controversy, and later Pawan Kumar Bansal and Ashwani Kumar in 2013. These resignations undoubtedly reflected accountability, but they differed from the Shastri model. Responsibility was eventually conceded when circumstances left little alternative. Around the beginning of this century, another significant shift became evident. Governments of different political persuasions gradually adopted the view that an administrative failure, by itself, should not compel the resignation of a minister. Unless there was evidence of personal misconduct, a judicial indictment or an overwhelming political necessity, ministers were expected to remain in office and oversee corrective measures. From an administrative perspective, this argument was not entirely without merit. A resignation does not by itself solve systemic failures. Yet the unintended consequence was that the moral bond between authority and accountability steadily weakened. The change became evident in a series of major controversies over the last two decades. Opposition parties demanded the resignation of L. K. Advani after the Gujarat violence of 2002. P. Chidambaram faced repeated demands over internal security issues and controversies surrounding the 2G spectrum affair. A K Antony was criticised over defence preparedness and procurement controversies. Smriti Irani and Bandaru Dattatreya were asked to resign after the Rohith Vemula episode. Narendra Singh Tomar faced sustained demands during the farmers agitation. Ajay Mishra Teni continued in office despite repeated calls for his removal after the Lakhimpur Kheri violence. Following the Balasore railway tragedy of 2023, the Opposition invoked the examples of Shastri and Nitish Kumar while demanding the resignation of Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw. None of these ministers resigned or even offered to resign. Gradually, it came to be accepted that a government enjoying a comfortable parliamentary majority could simply ignore Opposition demands, however persistent they might be. Political accountability increasingly became dependent upon electoral arithmetic rather than constitutional convention. It is against this background that the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan assumes significance. Only a few days before his resignation, both the Minister and the Government had categorically ruled out any question of his stepping down. The Opposition demanded his resignation, but by itself it lacked the parliamentary strength to compel the Government to act. Similar demands against several ministers in recent years had failed to produce any result. What altered the political equation was the sustained mobilisation of students and young examination aspirants. Their movement, born out of deep frustration over repeated examination irregularities, gathered momentum instead of fading away. It steadily expanded beyond its immediate grievance and came to symbolise a broader demand for political accountability. Faced with a movement that showed little sign of losing public sympathy, the Government appears to have concluded that the Ministers continuation had become politically more costly than accepting his resignation. In doing so, it succeeded in easing an agitation that was growing day by day and whose future course had become increasingly uncertain. The emergence of this new youth mobilisation, the methods it adopted and the long-term implications it may have for Indian democracy deserve a separate and detailed discussion. Writers, constitutional scholars, political scientists and social thinkers will undoubtedly analyse its strengths, limitations and future trajectory in the times ahead. It would therefore be premature to draw sweeping conclusions about its lasting political significance. What can safely be said, however, is that this episode has reopened a conversation that had almost disappeared from Indian public lifethe conversation about the moral foundations of governance. Dharmendra Pradhans resignation cannot be placed in the same category as that of Lal Bahadur Shastri. Shastri resigned because his conscience demanded it. Pradhan resigned after sustained public pressure made his continuation politically difficult. The circumstances were different, and so were the motivations. Yet history often advances not through identical events but through symbolic moments. After nearly three decades in which governments had successfully resisted almost every demand for ministerial accountability arising out of administrative failures, this resignation marks a significant departure. It reminds those in public office that parliamentary majorities, however large, do not place governments beyond the reach of public opinion. Democratic legitimacy ultimately rests not only upon numbers in the legislature but also upon the confidence of the people. Whether this episode marks the beginning of a revival of the Shastri tradition or remains an isolated exception is something only time will determine. But it has undeniably revived a debate that had almost disappeared from Indian public lifethat democratic legitimacy rests not only on electoral mandates and administrative efficiency, but also on the willingness of those entrusted with authority to accept responsibility for serious failures under their watch. If that debate ultimately strengthens the convention that authority and accountability must go hand in hand, this episode will be remembered not merely for the resignation of a Union Minister, but for reaffirming one of the finest traditions of Indian parliamentary democracy. Shakeel Qalander, prominent business leader and a civil society animator
Oil prices ease after US and Iran pause their attacks
Deshbhakt defeated andhbhakt, its now BJP vs Bharat: Thackerays
Mumbai Cyber Police register FIR against point-of-sale operator for selling mule SIM cards
Maharashtra records 87.79 pc distribution, 60.44 pc digitisation of enumeration forms under SIR
Maharashtra has distributed over eighty-seven percent of elector forms during the ongoing revision. Sixty percent of these distributed forms have now been successfully digitized. Hingoli district leads in form distribution, while Ratnagiri leads in digitization efforts. Major urban districts like Thane and Mumbai show lower percentages for both tasks. This exercise aims to ensure accurate and up-to-date voter lists for future elections.
Euphoric in victory, youth flag policy fatigue, E20 rule; Mumbai student groups plan coalition
Drunk driver reverses SUV in high speed to evade nakabandi in Mumbai, injures police constable
Participants at Mumbai victory rally hint next issue should be E20
Those who gathered at the rally organised by Shiv Sena (UBT) and MNS saw the protests as a personal victory; slogans raised calling for the resignation of Union Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari over E20 fuel rollout
Fire at Byculla police station building in Mumbai; no one hurt
Comedian Raunaq Rajani Accuses Mumbai Police Of Assaulting Wife During Protest, Shares Video
Mumbai Police had not responded to Rajani's allegations
Maharashtra govt to minority schools: Dont demand minority certificate at admission
Pen cap stuck in 10-year-old Mumbai girls lung for 7 years, doctors misdiagnose her with TB, asthma
Because of heavy infection and irreversible tissue damage, one-third of her lung had to be removed
Fire breaks out at Byculla police station building in Mumbai
A fire broke out on the first floor of the Byculla police station building on Sunday evening. Fire brigade personnel and officials rushed to the spot to contain the blaze. The fire was confined to the first floor and no injuries were reported. Preliminary findings point to a short circuit as the likely cause of the incident. The fire has been extinguished and an investigation is currently underway.
Sorry, Sir: Students apologise to reporter they called loser
Mumbai: A Zee News journalist, who was jeered while reporting the Mumbai CJP protests, received a public apology after the protests formally ended on Saturday, July 25. Reporter Kapil Raut was humiliated and called godi media and loser while reporting from Mumbais Shivaji Park, the student protests on the NEET UG 2026 paper leak and Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Mild tremors reported in Nashik; no casualties or major damage reported
According to officials, the tremors were experienced in Surgana, Kalwan, Dindori and Peth talukas. The Maharashtra Engineering and Research Institute (MERI), based in Nashik district of Maharashtra, said that the tremors measured around 3.6 in magnitude
Fadnavis again dismisses Delhi move buzz, says Bharat with PM
Indian armed forces mark 27th Kargil Vijay Diwas in Mumbai ceremony
The vijay diwas is celebrated every year on July 26 saluting a total of 527 soldiers from the Indian Armed Forces who lost their lives in the three month long conflict with Pakistan soldiers
Mumbai police arrest Bangladeshi man with forged Indian passport at airport
The accused used Indian passport to travel to Maldives and Colombo
Berlin Pride attack: One killed, 17 injured after car rams into crowd
The incident took place during the annual Christopher Street Day (CSD) parade, a major LGBTQI+ rights event attended by tens of thousands of people in the German capital
Maharashtra records 87.79% distribution, 60.44% digitisation of enumeration forms under SIR
Among the major urban districts, Thane reported a distribution of 67.97% and digitisation of 27.56%, Mumbai Suburban 67.79% and 28.72%, Mumbai City 72.37% and 38.88%, while Pune recorded 70% distribution and 45.04% digitisation
Boy abducted and assaulted after dispute over harvesting payment in Dharashiv
The accused allegedly intercepted the teenager and demanded that his family either return the advance amount taken for sugarcane harvesting work or report for the assigned labour
Iran, Oman discuss Hormuz navigation amid US naval blockade
Baqaei added that Oman delegation left Iran on Saturday. However, the two nations would continue the technical and political consultations
BKI operative arrested with IED in Jalandhar, major terror plot foiled
Punjab Police, in a joint operation by Counter Intelligence Jalandhar and Jalandhar Rural Police, arrested a key operative of an ISI-backed Babbar Khalsa International (BKI) terror module. An IED containing 1.3 kg of high explosive was recovered, preventing a major terror attack, officials said.
India issues advisory for citizens taking employment in Black Sea region
The advisory was issued amid growing concerns over the safety of commercial shipping in the region, where ongoing conflict has increased threats to maritime operations
Mumbai's metro-monorail-rail skywalk almost ready; here's all about it
The project, which has been built at a cost of Rs 60 crore, will connect Sant Gadge Maharaj Chowk Monorail Station, Mumbai Metro Line 3 and Mahalaxmi Railway Station through India's first travellator-equipped skywalk
Simple Act of Humanity: Man Thanks Mumbai Metro Strangers For Returning Lost Phone
The strangers reassured the commuter and promised to wait at the Vidhan Bhavan Metro station so they could hand it back in person.
UP forms new SIT to probe Ram Mandir donation theft case
The move comes after the Supreme Court ordered the Uttar Pradesh government to constitute a fresh SIT, under the leadership of a senior IPS officer
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis denied national politics speculation. He stated his work remains focused on Mumbai and the state. Fadnavis addressed the NEET paper leak, calling it a national concern. He mentioned the upcoming Public Examinations Bill in Lok Sabha. The Chief Minister also criticized Uddhav Thackeray's recent statements.
Legends and young voices keep ghazal alive at Khazana
The Silver Jubilee edition of Khazana festival celebrated the ghazal genre. Veterans and young performers shared the stage, honoring its rich legacy. Special tributes were paid to Asha Bhosle and Pankaj Udhas. Stalwarts like Hariharan and Sonu Nigam delivered memorable performances. The event successfully showcased the enduring magic and future of ghazals.
Sirsa demands Harjot Bains' resignation over Punjab paper leak
Sirsa accused the AAP of adopting double standards and alleged that its leaders had failed to uphold the principles they had previously advocated on examination paper leaks
The Traitors India Season 2 teaser promises more betrayal and mind games
Prime Video has officially announced Season 2 of The Traitors India. The teaser features masked figures in red robes roaming through Delhi and Mumbai, teasing more betrayal and mind games. The host, contestants, and premiere date are yet to be revealed
Archana Puran Singh and Parmeet Sethi's lavish Mumbai home reflects their close-knit family life. The Spanish-inspired villa features beige walls and earthy, pastel-toned decor throughout. Abundant natural light fills the living room with wooden furniture and colourful paintings. The couple's bedroom offers sweeping Mumbai skyline views and a classic four-poster bed. An expansive landscaped garden with cobbled pathways completes this tranquil retreat.
Salman Khans reaction to Raghav Juyals Bhai Tera Star Hai
Mumbai: Raghav Juyal has already received a major vote of confidence ahead of the release of his first solo-led film, Bhai Tera Star Hai. Salman Khan not only watched the trailer but reportedly played it twice before personally calling Raghav to congratulate him. Director-producer Vivek B Agrawal revealed that Salman was particularly amused by the Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Sea of youth at Mumbais Shivaji Park to celebrate Dharmendra Pradhans resignation
A group of participants in the gathering said they have come to Shivaji Park to show solidarity with the protesters; This is a victory of democracy, they said.
Pralhad Joshi takes charge as Union education minister a day after Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation
Praising students standing up against exam paper leaks nationwide, Uddhav Thackeray called this protest a precursor to a broader struggle against the BJP. The Shiv Sena (UBT) leader asserted that while votes can be compromised, peoples convictions cannot be. He lambasted Union ministers for their focus on political maneuvering rather than governance, urging young individuals to keep the pressure on and reject complacency in leadership.
Students show votes, not people, canbe stolen: Uddhav
Mumbai: Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray on Sunday, July 26, hailed students for their nationwide protests over the alleged exam papers leak, saying the agitation marked the beginning of a larger fight against the BJP and proved that votes can be stolen, but not people. He was addressing a gathering at Shivaji Park in Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Gold, silver prices today: Check latest gold rates in Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru and other cities
Gold rates for 22-carat and 24-carat purity continued to be influenced by global market trends, US dollar movements and domestic demand, while silver prices also reflected changing investment sentiment
Mega Block on Central Railway main and Trans-Harbour Line today; suburban services to be affected
Central Railway will operate a mega block on the Main Line today. Essential engineering and maintenance works will occur between Thane and Kalyan. Trans-Harbour Line services between Thane and Vashi/Nerul will also be suspended. Fast and semi-fast suburban trains will face delays and diversions. Several Mail and Express trains will use alternative routes during this period.
PM Modi Praises Indian Womens Cricket Team for Historic Win at Lords
Mumbai, July 26: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has lauded the Indian womens cricket team for their historic victory against England at Lords. In the 136th episode of his Mann Ki Baat program, PM Modi described this achievement as significant. He stated, The Indian womens cricket team has won their first Test match at Lords. This ... Read more PM Modi Praises Indian Womens Cricket Team for Historic Win at Lords
Amit Shah praises Dharmendra Pradhans resignation
Union Home Minister Amit Shah praised Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation as Education Minister, saying it reflected the BJP's principle of putting the nation and students above any post. He also highlighted Pradhan's role in implementing the National Education Policy and expanding education reforms
Maharashtra: Blaze engulfs four shops, firefighters rush to the spot
Massive fire broke out at four shops in Maharashtra's Washim district early Sunday. Firefighters rushed to the scene and launched efforts to control the blaze. The cause of the fire is yet to be determined, while authorities await further details on the incident
Delhi Metro resumes normal operations as all stations reopen after NEET protest
Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) has restored normal operations across its network, reopening all Metro stations for entry and exit after temporary security restrictions imposed during nationwide protests over the NEET paper leak controversy
President Murmu returns to Delhi after concluding State visits to Moldova
Announcing her return, the official X handle of the President of India posted: President Droupadi Murmu arrived in Delhi after completing her State visits to Moldova, North Macedonia and Romania.
Dharmendra Pradhan resigns as Education Minister after NEET paper leak protests
Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan resigned after nationwide protests over the NEET paper leak. Union Minister Pralhad Joshi has been appointed the new Education Minister, while the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) called off its 36-day agitation after the Centre accepted its key demands
Annu Kapoor defends dudhiya badan remark on Tamannaah Bhatia
Mumbai: Months after facing backlash for commenting on Tamannaah Bhatias body, veteran actor Annu Kapoor has once again defended his controversial choice of words. During a recent interview with Zoom, Annu was asked what he meant when he described Tamannaah as having a dudhiya badan. The host pointed out that he was heavily trolled over Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
30% win, system needs fixing: Mumbai students
Student protesters in Mumbai welcomed the Union education minister's resignation. This move is seen as a partial victory, with students demanding more accountability. They believe the system needs significant reform to ensure fairness in major examinations. Protesters also called for compensation for families who lost children to suicide. Further demands include police accountability and addressing broader economic issues.
Japans human refrigerator promises relief from heatwaves at 5 degrees Celsius
A Japanese company has launched a Rs 8.8 lakh human refrigerator that cools users to 5 degrees Celsius in 10 minutes to combat extreme heat. The odd news roundup also features self-dressing robotic clothes, acupuncture needles left in a patient's leg, and a bizarre toilet-seat drinking contest in Russia
Trump says no decision yet on major strikes against Iran as talks continue
US President Donald Trump said he has not yet decided on launching major strikes against Iran, adding that Tehran is becoming more serious in talks with Washington. The remarks came amid reports of possible military action and rising tensions across the Middle East, including Houthi attacks on Saudi Arabia
Murmu praises Indian diaspora during historic Romania state visit
President Droupadi Murmu praised the Indian diaspora in Romania, calling them true representatives of India whose achievements strengthen bilateral ties. During her historic state visit, she also highlighted the contributions of Indian professionals and companies to Romanias development
Bruh, you boomers believe that children should be seen and not heard, well weve been both seen and heard
Russia-Ukraine war: 14 dead in latest attacks as drone strike hits Sumy
Russia-installed officials claimed a Ukrainian strike on tourist resorts in occupied Zaporizhzhia killed 14 people, including four children, while Ukrainian authorities said a Russian drone attack killed three people in Sumy. Romania also reported shooting down a drone that entered its airspace
