The Economic Times
Elections 2026National / The Economic Times
Shiv Sena (UBT) has claimed that Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation will not end the NEET paper leak controversy, alleging that the Modi government's governance remains responsible for the crisis. The party criticised the proposed anti-paper leak law as inadequate and accused the Centre of misleading students and parents while holding PM Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah accountable for the handling of the protests.
Arjun Ray, a former JD(U) MP, joined the BJP on Monday. He had quit his party a decade ago after Nitish Kumar rejoined the NDA. Ray was a loyalist of late Sharad Yadav and opposed Kumar's alliance shifts. His induction is seen as a move to counter Prashant Kishor's outreach. This occurs before the Bankipur assembly bypoll on July 30.
The government will pass the Public Examinations Bill without discussion if the Opposition refuses participation. Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla urged political parties to hold consultations for the debate. The Bill aims to strengthen legal frameworks against examination fraud with tougher penalties. Opposition parties demand detailed scrutiny by a committee before immediate discussion. They also insist on a statement regarding alleged student assault during protests.
Dharmendra Pradhan was met with an enthusiastic reception from Members of Parliament as he entered the Monsoon Session, marking a stark moment after stepping down as Education Minister due to the controversy surrounding the NEET-UG 2026 paper leak. Meanwhile, opposing MPs took a stand against police responses to student demonstrations, introducing adjournment motions while Priyanka Gandhi scrutinized the government's effectiveness in preventing such leaks through legislation.
In an impressive display of talent, Esha Singh won gold in the women's 25m pistol event, while Manu Bhaker achieved bronze in a thrilling finale. Esha reflected on her triumph over mental challenges and the joy of shooting in Hangzhou, and Manu expressed that her medal is a crucial milestone, paving the way for her future endeavors in shooting.
Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and Samajwadi Party MP Dimple Yadav on Monday launched a scathing attack on the BJP-led Central government over the alleged use of force and intimidation against students protesting the recent exam paper leaks.
Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk has been discharged from the hospital. He will now visit Rajghat to pay tribute to Mahatma Gandhi. After this visit, he plans to return to the mountains. Wangchuk expressed gratitude to his supporters and the medical team. The team at Medanta Hospital Gurgaon provided him with excellent care.
A 26-year-old Bengaluru professional with Rs 2 lakh monthly salary, zero debt, Rs 14 lakh in savings and retired parents says he still feels financially inadequate. His Reddit post about watching auto driver friends with loans appear happier and more content has resonated widely online.
Thousands of primary school teachers marched across Himachal Pradesh demanding policy changes. They gathered in Shimla after a 15-day protest march concluded. Federation leaders have now begun an indefinite relay hunger strike outside the directorate. The Chief Minister assured the gathering that most demands were accepted.
The Supreme Court dismissed a review petition regarding Scheduled Caste status. A person converting to a religion other than Hindu, Sikh, or Buddhist loses SC status. This loss is immediate and complete from the moment of conversion. The court upheld an Andhra Pradesh High Court order on this matter. Reconversion requires proof of original caste and community acceptance.
India has attracted nearly $32 billion in foreign capital since the RBI announced special inflow measures on June 5, Governor Sanjay Malhotra said. FCNR(B) deposits have already exceeded the 2013 record, but strong dollar demand linked to costly oil imports and weak exporter hedging continues to keep the rupee near record lows.
Ukraine seeks a European anti-ballistic system prototype by mid-next year. This ambitious project aims to counter Russian missile threats effectively. Kyiv will provide a launcher and interceptor missile for testing. European nations and defense manufacturers are contributing technology and expertise. The goal is a lower-cost alternative to existing air defense systems.
The Indian women's hockey team has adopted a strict diet, avoiding sweets and fast food. This disciplined approach supports their focus on the FIH World Cup and Asian Games. Players maintain high fitness standards, a change from previous Olympic campaigns. Their commitment is self-motivated, aiming for podium finishes in major events. The team's preparations are bolstered by recent successes and expert guidance.
Why Do People Get Grey Hair: New research in Japan suggests grey hair may signal a body's protective response against Cancer. Stem cells shut down after severe DNA damage, preventing harm, however, certain carcinogens can cause these cells to multiply unchecked. This process can lead to melanoma, the most dangerous skin cancer. The study connects visible aging and cancer risk in new ways.
As Middle East tensions rise, Americas energy market stability is put to the test. Record levels of electricity demand and heavy data-center usage are straining the nations energy system. Critical metrics like oil and gas production are actively monitored for pressure points, while tight refined product inventories raise concerns. Although gas storage remains adequate, strong LNG exports hint at potential supply challenges ahead.
Rahul Gandhi criticized the Modi government over alleged AK-47 use against protesting students. He demanded Prime Minister Modi apologize and take action against attackers. Left-wing student groups demonstrated across Bihar following a statewide bandh. Police reportedly fired AK-47s at protesters during a demonstration in Siwan. Similar incidents involving student protests have occurred in other Indian states.
Cricket's return to the Olympics at Los Angeles 2028 is driven as much by strategy as sport, with the IOC aiming to tap into India's vast audience and commercial power. Officials say the move will help the Games reach billions of new viewers, boost broadcasting revenues and attract younger fans, while the explosive rise of T20 cricket and the IPL has made the sport an ideal Olympic fit. With Brisbane 2032 and India's 2036 hosting ambitions on the horizon, cricket is expected to become a long-ter
Congress MPs, led by Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, staged a protest in the Parliament House complex on Monday over the alleged police crackdown on students protesting the NEET paper leak. The party demanded an apology from Union Home Minister Amit Shah, while Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi sought accountability over the alleged use of force against peaceful protesters, saying their grievances should be addressed through dialogue rather than violence.
India secured a 3-0 T20 series victory over Zimbabwe in Harare. Interim coach VVS Laxman commended captain Shreyas Iyer's leadership and optimism. Iyer acknowledged Laxman's motivational role in the team's successful performance. The Indian squad achieved this win despite missing several key players. This series triumph followed a challenging start to Iyer's captaincy.
The Supreme Court asserted that police actions during protests must not exceed justified limits, advocating for a structured approach to managing peaceful gatherings. The court has agreed to review claims of excessive force used against student protesters and a related case about police being attacked, during a time when the government is reinforcing anti-paper leak legislation.
A shooting occurred Sunday evening at Seattle Center during the Bite of Seattle food festival. Two individuals tragically lost their lives at the scene of the incident. Five other people sustained injuries and were transported to a local hospital. Authorities have taken two suspects into custody following the violent event. Police are continuing their investigation into the motive and any additional involvement.
A new bill to prevent unfair means in public examinations will be introduced. Opposition MPs seek thorough scrutiny of the proposed legislation's provisions. BJP members welcome the bill as a strong deterrent against paper leaks. The bill proposes stringent penalties including a ten-year prison term. This aims to curb organized gangs jeopardizing students' futures.
Economists predict the Reserve Bank of India will maintain its key interest rate at 5.25% through year-end. This decision comes as the central bank assesses war impacts and current price pressures. Inflation has risen above the target, but a rate hike is considered premature by officials. The RBI will likely avoid using interest rates to defend the weakening rupee. India's economic growth is forecast to slow to 6.
AIADMK chief Edappadi K Palaniswami and four former legislators face a disqualification hearing. The four MLAs quit AIADMK and joined the ruling TVK party after winning elections. Assembly Speaker J C D Prabhakar summoned them to explain their actions on July thirtieth. Palaniswami sought action against them under anti-defection laws for their party switch.
CJP Resignation Party Viral Video: Supreme Court lawyer Mahesh Jethmalani questioned the Cockroach Janta Party's celebrations after protests and the resignation of the Union Education minister Dharmendra Pradhan. He raised concerns about the movement's leadership celebrating with music and dancing. Jethmalani also demanded transparency regarding the funding of the month-long agitation.
Opposition leaders convened to plan their parliamentary strategy for the ongoing session. They will discuss police action against student protestors and the NEET paper leak. Leaders voiced concerns over the use of pellet guns on unarmed youth. The government plans to introduce a bill on public examinations today. Opposition members seek accountability and clarification from the government.
Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju urged all political parties to participate in the debate on the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Amendment Bill, 2026, which aims to strengthen the legal framework against paper leaks and examination malpractices. The Bill, introduced in the Lok Sabha amid concerns over the NEET-UG controversy and recent student protests, proposes stricter measures to curb unfair practices in public examinations. The government said the legislation refl
Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Amendment Bill, 2026: The Bill seeks to amend the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, 2024, amid heightened concerns over examination irregularities and paper leaks.
Indian Naval Ship Sudarshini has departed the United States for Portugal. The vessel concluded its month-long visit after attending US independence anniversary celebrations. Sudarshini participated in SAIL 250 events across several American cities. It showcased India's maritime strength and fostered international naval partnerships. The ship continues its Lokayan 26 voyage promoting goodwill and seafaring traditions.
Tamil Nadu Finance Minister N. Marie Wilson said the TVK government will table an audit report during the Budget session alleging corruption and party fund irregularities under the previous DMK regime. He also reiterated the government's commitment to abolishing NEET.
Myanmar's military has intensified attacks on civilians since a new administration took office. Specialized jet fighter groups are conducting sustained airstrikes against single targets. The military's tactics show shifting modalities of civilian repression rather than reduction. Diplomatic engagement is increasing with regional governments and neighboring countries.
The Lok Sabha will consider the Public Examinations Amendment Bill, 2026. This bill aims to prevent unfair means in national examinations. Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav urged the government not to challenge public awareness. Nationalist Congress Party MP Saayoni Ghosh welcomed the government's steps. Youth and student views were heard, fostering hope for constructive parliamentary discussion.
Industrialist Harsh Goenka sarcastically shared a new robot dog video online. He implied Galgotias University might claim this invention as its own. This references a past controversy where the university presented a commercial robot as its creation. The university later clarified the robot was a teaching tool for students. This incident highlights ongoing discussions about indigenous innovation versus rebranded technology.
The Congress party on Monday moved several adjournment and suspension of business notices in both Houses of Parliament, seeking an immediate discussion on the alleged rutal and disproportionate use of force by security personnel against students protesting in the national capital.
The Amarnath Yatra resumed after a six-day suspension due to heavy rainfall and inclement weather. Pilgrims from the 20th batch successfully crossed Chanderkote on Monday en route to the Holy Cave shrine. Authorities allowed travel exclusively via the Baltal route as the Pahalgam track remains closed. The annual pilgrimage attracts thousands of devotees from across the country each year.
Rajya Sabha MP Kapil Sibal criticised the Centre's handling of the NEET paper leak issue, accusing the Modi government of first denying the problem, cracking down on protesters and only later announcing exam reforms. His remarks came after Prime Minister Narendra Modi unveiled a high-powered task force headed by Infosys co-founder Nandan Nilekani to recommend structural and technology-driven reforms for the National Testing Agency's examination system following the end of the 36-day NEET agitati
Quote of the day: Martin Heidegger viewed human existence as a constant movement toward death. He argued that awareness of mortality shapes every moment of life. People often avoid confronting death, living according to social expectations. Heidegger believed facing mortality leads to a more authentic and deliberate existence.
A forensic investigation has found that major Australian brands like Leggo's, Coles, and Aldi misled consumers about the origins of their tomato products. Over 221 tomato-based items were analysed, revealing that many were actually sourced from China. The involved companies have denied any wrongdoing and are conducting internal inquiries to address these accusations.
RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat described Gen Z as emotional and adaptable youth. He cautioned that this generation often does not think with a calm mind. Bhagwat linked the Women's Liberation Movement to societal changes and youth acceptance. He stated that LGBTQ+ individuals are part of Indian society and should not be ostracized. Bhagwat emphasized that tradition has acknowledged their existence and right to live.
US Central Command chief advised stopping strikes near Strait of Hormuz due to limited effectiveness. President Trump halted American military strikes against Iran after receiving this advice. Military and civilian advisors acknowledged limits to air power campaigns and their accomplishments. Iran halted retaliatory attacks after Washington paused its strikes for two nights. The US and UK are discussing an international conference to protect the Strait of Hormuz.
Datia assembly byelection campaigning intensifies with BJP focusing on development and Congress on farmer and OBC issues. Senior leaders from both parties are actively campaigning for the July 30 bypoll in the constituency. The BJP's Ashutosh Tiwari faces Congress's Ghanshyam Singh in this crucial electoral contest. Election Commission directives have led to the transfer of seven police officers to ensure fair polling.

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