SENSEX
NIFTY
GOLD
USD/INR

Weather

image 29    C

The Times of India

Politics / The Times of India

Child protection panel launches inquiry into Meta over alleged child sexual abuse material ads

The NCPCR has initiated a formal investigation following alarming claims from a BBC report which suggested that advertisements on Metas platforms like Instagram were linked to the promotion of child abuse material. In response, the child rights organization has demanded clarity from Meta Platforms Inc. Furthermore, the NHRC has instructed the Delhi Police to look into these troubling assertions, as both entities scrutinize Meta's adherence to child protection regulations.

4 Aug 2026 10:16 pm
Uttarakhand CM Dhami welcomes Kanwariyas in Haridwar, inaugurates health camp amid Kanwar Yatra

Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Tuesday welcomed Kanwariyas arriving in Haridwar for the annual Kanwar Yatra, showering flower petals on Shiva devotees from a helicopter and washing the feet of five pilgrims as a mark of respect.

4 Aug 2026 8:22 pm
From Hype To Help: How AI Is Solving India's Real Problems

India is harnessing the power of artificial intelligence to address its various developmental challenges effectively. In educational settings, AI supports teachers in remote areas, while in agriculture, it assists farmers facing changing climate conditions. The healthcare system is being transformed through AI-driven diagnostics, and access to government services is increasing. Furthermore, AI contributes to strengthening climate resilience and streamlining agricultural loan assessments, prompti

4 Aug 2026 7:52 pm
Security on high alert in Jammu & Kashmir: Pakistani drone sighted in Kathua, anti-terror search intensifies in Poonch

A Pakistani drone was spotted over Kathua's Hiranagar sector, prompting a security search. Security forces also conducted a large anti-terror operation in Poonch district. An unexploded mortar shell was recovered from a house in Kathua. These events occur amid heightened tensions along the India-Pakistan border. India stated it will safeguard its national interests as needed.

4 Aug 2026 7:50 pm
'RSS involvement in Sainik Schools increasing', says Rahul Gandhi; Parl panel chief demands evidence

Rahul Gandhi alleged increasing RSS involvement in Sainik Schools during a committee meeting. He referred to a media report while making his claim to the panel. The committee chair asked Rahul Gandhi to provide supporting documents for his allegations. Other BJP members also questioned the basis of his statements. Gandhi has previously accused the RSS of capturing public institutions.

4 Aug 2026 7:28 pm
'Madrassa pass-outs develop terrorist-like mindset': UP deputy CM Keshav Maurya

Speaking to reporters at Vidhan Bhavan, Maurya alleged that madrassa students do not express patriotic slogans and linked their education to extremism. Anyone who receives a madrassa education does not chant 'Bharat Mata Ki Jai' nor sing 'Vande Mataram', and develops a terrorist-like mindset, he was quoted as saying by news agency PTI. The remarks were strongly criticised by senior Samajwadi Party leader Shivpal Yadav.

4 Aug 2026 6:32 pm
'Answered public discontent with bullets and repression': MEA slams Pakistan over 'farce' PoK polls

In a strong statement, the Ministry of External Affairs demanded action against cross-border terrorism, directly targeting groups like Lashkar-e-Taiba following claims about Indian agencies taking down their commanders. They lambasted the local elections in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir as illegitimate, citing repression of civilians by Pakistani forces. Moreover, India urged the global community to address Pakistan's actions firmly.

4 Aug 2026 5:21 pm
'Will do whatever is necessary for national interest': India after Pakistan deploys 250 Chinese Howitzers

India stated it will protect national interests after Pakistan deployed Chinese artillery guns. Pakistan has reportedly deployed around 250 Chinese-made SH-15 artillery systems. India criticized Pakistan's recent elections in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir as a farce. The spokesperson noted civilian deaths during a crackdown in the region. Both nations continue to modernize their respective artillery capabilities.

4 Aug 2026 5:18 pm
'Decisions at appropriate time': Jharkhand CM Hemant Soren breaks silence on recruitment row amid protests

Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren addressed recruitment row concerns seriously. Protesting job aspirants demand an independent probe into examination irregularities. The state CID investigation is gathering pace with several arrests made. Former CM Raghubar Das urged dialogue and a CBI inquiry for justice. The indefinite sit-in continues, with protesters vowing to escalate their agitation.

4 Aug 2026 4:41 pm
'Sadhu-saint not involved': CM Yogi on Ram Mandir donation theft case

Addressing reporters, CM Yogi said said the initial SIT report had not found any involvement of religious figures in the alleged theft of offerings made at the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Temple. No involvement of any sadhu-saint was found in the SIT's initial report in the case related to the alleged embezzlement of offerings (chadhava) at the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Temple, he said.

4 Aug 2026 4:27 pm
'Many friends yet to return': Patna students restart protest over NEET stir crackdown

The demonstrators demanded immediate release of all students still in jail and the withdrawal of criminal cases registered against those arrested during the statewide agitation. We want a verified list of those who have been released from jail and those who are still behind bars after being arrested during the protests, one of the protesters said. A student activist from Siwan also alleged excessive use of force during earlier protests.

4 Aug 2026 3:26 pm
21 Bangladesh nationals detained in J&Ks Ramban

Twenty-one Bangladesh nationals were detained in Ramban district last week. Officials are questioning them to learn who facilitated their movement. The group was caught moving in two vehicles during a checking drive. None of them could produce valid identity or travel documents. Investigators are probing if any network assisted these illegal immigrants.

4 Aug 2026 4:52 am
J&K: Days after Kulgam terror attack, man with grenade held in Pulwama

A suspect was apprehended in Pulwama carrying a hand grenade and anti-national posters. This arrest occurred during a security operation following recent migrant worker killings. Authorities booked the local man under stringent anti-terror laws, including the UAPA. Security forces are increasing patrols and checkpoints across the valley. This intensified security aims to maintain peace and prevent further unlawful activities.

4 Aug 2026 4:40 am
India crosses 20k organ transplants/yr for 1st time

India performed a record 20,138 organ transplants in 2025, a significant increase over previous years. Delhi-NCR led the nation in transplant procedures, while Tamil Nadu topped deceased organ donors. India now ranks third globally in total organ transplants, after the US and China. Deceased donor transplants continue to fall short of the substantial demand for organs. Government initiatives aim to strengthen organ donation and transplant services across the country.

4 Aug 2026 4:16 am
Withdraw cases, allow youngsters to continue studies: SC to states

The Supreme Court permitted governments to withdraw cases against student protesters. This move aims to allow students to pursue their studies without prosecution fears. However, cases against individuals with criminal records will not be dropped. The court will also establish guidelines for the use of graded force by police. Discussions on modalities for dropping cases against genuine students are ongoing.

4 Aug 2026 4:11 am
Opposition toughens stand, washout of session likely

Parliament's monsoon session faces potential washout amid opposition demands. Opposition insists on discussing Ram temple donations and police actions. Union ministers criticize opposition for boycotting legislative proceedings. Bills were passed without debate due to the ongoing parliamentary standoff. The government has not yet assured discussions on the opposition's key demands.

4 Aug 2026 3:43 am
UPS has attracted just 4% of NPS subscribers: Government

The Unified Pension Scheme for central government employees has seen low adoption rates. Only a small percentage of National Pension Trust subscribers have opted for this new scheme. The government introduced UPS with assured pension benefits and gratuity provisions. However, the response has been tepid, prompting an extension of the migration deadline. No changes are currently being considered to replace the Unified Pension Scheme.

4 Aug 2026 3:39 am
SC: How can transgender ID cards be rendered invalid?

The Supreme Court has sought the government's response regarding the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Amendment Act. Concerns were raised that the new law might erase existing benefits for transgender individuals. Senior advocates reported that hormone treatment is being denied due to fear of prosecution. They also alleged the discontinuation of the national portal for transgenders. The court questioned the retrospective invalidation of previously issued transgender identity cards.

4 Aug 2026 3:31 am
'Flavouring neutral alcohol isn't right in spirit'

The FSSAI has prohibited adding rum or whisky flavour to spirits. This practice misrepresents the true nature of alcoholic beverages and misleads consumers. Manufacturers were found using neutral alcohol and adding identical flavouring substances. Several companies, including United Spirits, faced prohibitions and notices. The regulator stressed that characteristic taste should develop naturally through base ingredients.

4 Aug 2026 1:48 am
SC expands ambit of Sec 498A to cover cruelty in live-ins too

The Supreme Court has extended legal protection to live-in relationships. These relationships are now covered under Section 498A of the IPC. The court stated that the law must adapt to changing societal norms. Cruelty within such relationships will now be punishable by law. This decision aims to protect women from domestic violence and harassment.

4 Aug 2026 1:41 am
Of 39 medals won by India at CWG, military personnel bag 18 nearly 50%

Indian Army athletes secured sixteen medals at the recent Commonwealth Games. These included eight gold, seven silver, and one bronze medal. Two Indian Navy personnel also contributed silver medals in weightlifting. Combined, services personnel achieved forty-six percent of India's total medal haul. Their performance highlights the Army's commitment to nurturing world-class athletes.

3 Aug 2026 11:18 pm
NDA states acted firmly against recruitment scams; opposition failed to curb irregularities: CM Dhami

Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Monday said that NDA-ruled states have taken firm action against recruitment scams and examination-related irregularities, while alleging that opposition-ruled states failed to curb such malpractices and were marked by widespread irregularities in recruitment processes.

3 Aug 2026 9:15 pm