The Times of India

The Centre argued before the Supreme Court that Article 25(1) on religious freedom doesn't mandate gender equality, as Articles 15 and 16 already prohibit sex discrimination. It urged courts to avoid interfering in religious practices, stating only the legislature can enact social reforms through broad discussions. The bench reserved its verdict.

BRICS foreign ministers are struggling to agree on a joint statement concerning West Asia. Tensions flared between the UAE and Iran during the meeting. Iran accused the UAE of direct involvement in aggression. India's External Affairs Minister stressed the importance of consensus for new members. The outcome of the meeting remains uncertain.

Delhi high court judge Swarana Kanta Sharma announced contempt proceedings against discharged accused in the excise policy case for posting defamatory material. The judge stated she cannot remain silent against vilifying content targeting her and the court. This action follows Arvind Kejriwal and others boycotting proceedings after the judge declined to recuse herself.

Uttar Pradesh reels from devastating rains and thunderstorms, claiming over 100 lives and causing significant damage to homes and livestock. The state government has pledged Rs 4 lakh compensation for each deceased and is actively monitoring relief efforts. Meanwhile, advanced AI-powered weather forecasting systems have been launched to enhance early warnings for extreme weather events nationwide.

AIADMK faces a potential Shiv Sena-style split in Tamil Nadu after a fractured mandate. Rebel MLAs defied a party whip to support the new government, dividing the party. This move mirrors the Shiv Sena crisis and raises questions about AIADMK's future, its leadership, and control over its symbol.

Following the Congress's announcement of VD Satheesan as Kerala's next chief minister, the BJP launched a sharp attack, alleging the decision was influenced by the Indian Union Muslim League. BJP leaders claimed the Congress leadership surrendered to its alliance partner, accusing them of being remote-controlled and bowing to the IUML's demands due to political dependence in the state.

Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta has unveiled significant austerity measures, slashing official vehicle fuel quotas by 20% and mandating Metro use for ministers and officers every Monday. A weekly 'No Vehicle Day' and a six-month ban on new vehicle purchases are also in effect.

The Bar Council of India has requested detailed information from the West Bengal Bar Council regarding Mamata Banerjee's legal enrollment and practice status. This follows her appearance in lawyer's robes at the Calcutta High Court to argue a public interest litigation. The BCI seeks to verify her active status as an advocate, given her previous tenure as Chief Minister.

India has strongly condemned an attack on an Indian-flagged ship near Oman, deeming it 'unacceptable' and expressing deep concern over ongoing threats to commercial shipping. All Indian crew members aboard the vessel are reported safe, with thanks extended to Omani authorities for their rescue.

VD Satheesan has been appointed the new Kerala chief minister. The Congress party announced his selection after a period of deliberation. Satheesan, a lawyer and social worker with a strong legislative background, previously served as the leader of the opposition, guiding the party's resurgence.

A massive 7,500-page chargesheet has been filed by the NIA against 10 individuals linked to the deadly Red Fort car bomb blast in November 2025. The accused, associated with an Al-Qaeda offshoot, allegedly plotted to overthrow the Indian government and impose Sharia rule. Investigations revealed procurement of specialized equipment and manufacturing of explosives by radicalized medical professionals.

Powerful thunderstorms, lightning, and strong winds have claimed at least 89 lives across Uttar Pradesh. The devastating storms, which lasted for hours, also injured 53 people and killed 114 animals. Widespread destruction of homes and property was reported, with collapsing walls and falling trees being the primary causes of fatalities.

A father in Rajasthan allegedly scanned a handwritten NEET UG 2026 question paper, turning it into PDFs for aspirants. This development follows the NTA's cancellation of the exam, impacting numerous medical hopefuls. Investigators are probing how the paper was accessed and circulated, with some students reportedly paying substantial sums for leaked material.

A devastating storm swept through five districts of Uttar Pradesh, claiming at least 33 lives and causing widespread destruction. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has ordered immediate relief and compensation for affected families, with district authorities tasked to expedite assistance. Surveys are underway to assess damage to crops, livestock, and homes, as rescue efforts faced disruptions due to the severe weather.

Tamil Nadu CM renews calls to scrap NEET after exam cancellation due to alleged paper leak, citing disadvantages for rural and disadvantaged students. The CBI has arrested five individuals, with investigations pointing to a leak originating in Nashik and spreading through coaching networks. Protests intensify nationwide demanding accountability.