The Times of India

Ladakh's political groups, Leh Apex Body and Kargil Democratic Alliance, have called for a shutdown on June 23, accusing the Centre of reneging on agreements regarding legislative powers and constitutional safeguards. They warn of renewed agitation if their demands for full statehood and Sixth Schedule status are not met, emphasizing that public mobilization will proceed despite the Dalai Lama's upcoming visit.

Over 8,500 pilgrims, predominantly Kashmiri Pandits, embarked on their journey from Jammu for the annual Kheer Bhawani Mela. The significant increase in registrations this year is attributed to a peaceful environment, enhanced security, and comprehensive arrangements. Officials have been stationed at various shrines across Kashmir to ensure smooth proceedings for the devotees participating in the revered yatra.

Nimbalkar was among the six MPs who stayed away from the June 17 meeting convened by the Uddhav Thackeray-led party. With Shiv Sena (UBT) holding nine seats in the Lok Sabha, the rebel faction requires the support of at least six MPs, or two-thirds of the parliamentary party, to avoid attracting provisions of the anti-defection law.

BJP chief Nitin Nabin launched a three-day Punjab visit, emphasizing a vision for the state mirroring Maharaja Ranjit Singh's era. His tour, including prayers at the Golden Temple and a Jalandhar roadshow, signals intensified preparations for the 2027 Assembly elections. Nabin met with the Punjab BJP core committee to strategize on organizational strengthening and booth-level expansion, aiming to form a 'double-engine government' under PM Modi's leadership.

Authorities have implemented extensive security measures for the NEET re-exam on June 21, including a ban on Telegram and Indian Air Force involvement in transporting question papers. Over 13,500 CCTV cameras, 51,000 jammers, and AI surveillance are in place. Massive police and paramilitary forces are deployed, with stringent biometric verification and mock drills conducted to ensure a fair and secure examination process nationwide.

India hosts a crucial BRICS security conclave in New Delhi, bringing together top officials including China's Wang Yi and Russia's Shoigu. Discussions will centre on global flashpoints like the Middle East conflict and the Ukraine war, alongside regional security and terrorism concerns. This meeting serves as a vital prelude to the upcoming BRICS Summit, with a focus on non-traditional security challenges and emerging technologies.

India, once concerned about a population boom, now faces a declining birth rate, with the Total Fertility Rate dropping to 1.9 children per woman, below the replacement level. This significant shift reflects women's increased educational attainment, career focus, and later marriages, leading to more personal choices about family planning. The narrative is evolving from population control to individual decisions, marking a societal transition.

Ahead of the NEET re-exam, Rahul Gandhi offered encouragement to students and urged the government to prevent further disruptions. He highlighted the stress faced by aspirants, referencing a case of a Nagpur student reportedly assigned an Abu Dhabi center, though the NTA clarified the student chose the option. Gandhi emphasized the need for a reliable examination system.

The CBI will challenge the acquittal of nine individuals, including former NCP leader Padamsinh Patil, in the 2006 Pawanraje Nimbalkar double murder case. Maharashtra's Deputy Chief Minister confirmed the appeal to the Bombay High Court, citing disappointment with the special court's decision. The acquittal, nearly two decades after the murders, hinged on the unreliability of a key witness. This high-profile political murder case is set for further legal battle.

A political storm has erupted in Varanasi after Congress workers depicted Rahul Gandhi as Lord Parshuram, performing a symbolic milk ablution on his photograph. The BJP has strongly condemned the act, accusing the Congress of disrespecting Hindu faith and using religious symbols for political gain. Congress leaders, however, defended the gesture, questioning the BJP's monopoly on religious figures and asserting Gandhi's distinct identity.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi celebrated President Droupadi Murmu's birthday by highlighting her dedication to public service before joining her in Odisha. Their visit included engagements in her native Mayurbhanj district and the inauguration of development projects exceeding Rs 47,600 crore. These initiatives span energy, infrastructure, healthcare, and more, aiming to boost connectivity and create jobs across the state.

Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut has strongly criticized Maharashtra Deputy CM Eknath Shinde, labeling him a dishonest leader who betrayed the party. Raut also drew parallels with West Bengal's Suvendu Adhikari, suggesting both leaders make provocative statements while in power. He warned that public backlash awaits them once their power diminishes, amidst speculation of MPs switching parties.

Political tensions escalate between Shiv Sena factions as Sanjay Raut fires back at Eknath Shinde's 'lion' jibe with a post calling some people disloyal dogs. This follows speculation of six Uddhav Thackeray camp MPs potentially defecting to Shinde's side. Raut announced action, including disqualification efforts, against the absent MPs, while Thackeray emotionally appealed to workers, vowing not to hand the party to 'thieves'.

India has achieved a significant leadership role in the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) with Vivek Aggarwal elected as its Vice President. This appointment underscores India's commitment to combating money laundering and terrorist financing globally. Aggarwal's extensive experience, including leading India's FATF delegation and heading the Financial Intelligence Unit, will bolster the organization's efforts to secure financial integrity and dismantle illicit financial systems.

West Bengal Police have apprehended Sarina Bibi, wife of former TMC leader Jahangir Khan, for allegedly masterminding an attack on Falta police station. The incident aimed to free Khan from custody. This arrest is part of a wider crackdown on Khan's alleged criminal network, following his own apprehension near the India-Nepal border. Investigations into the attack are ongoing, with further arrests anticipated.

Pilots' union FIP alleges the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau's report on Air India flight 171 omits crucial cockpit warnings of an electrical failure preceding engine loss. Independent simulator tests commissioned by FIP reportedly contradict the Bureau's timeline for emergency power deployment, raising serious questions about the investigation's findings and the fate of the deceased pilots.

Chaos erupted outside Kolkata airport Friday night as Trinamool and BJP supporters clashed violently. BJP supporters allegedly planned to target Abhishek Banerjee with rotten eggs, prompting a swift counter-response from TMC cadres. The altercation, involving blows and hurled objects, caused panic among passengers and massive traffic jams. Banerjee left the airport under heavy police escort, avoiding interaction.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted that India's trade agreements with nearly 40 nations are unlocking global markets and professional opportunities. He urged businesses and youth to leverage these avenues, emphasizing that 'quality' in all aspects from education to products is crucial for international competitiveness.

A Nagpur NEET aspirant received a shocking hall ticket assigning his exam centre to Abu Dhabi, over 2,500 km away, despite not possessing a passport. The National Testing Agency (NTA) assured rectification, but with the exam imminent, the family faced immense stress arranging travel. This incident follows widespread reports of exam centre changes, even for students who opted to retain their original locations, adding to the anxiety post-paper leak.

Centre reaffirms commitment to granting Ladakh constitutional safeguards under Article 371 and ensuring bureaucratic accountability to elected leaders, despite reservations from regional representatives over meeting minutes. Discussions are ongoing to define the precise scope of these protections and the framework for administrative oversight, with a customized approach being developed for the region.

Maharashtra Deputy CM Eknath Shinde issued a veiled warning to Shiv Sena UBT, stating that the recent departure of six MPs is merely a prelude to further defections. He confidently asserted that his faction is growing, while Shiv Sena UBT is losing its support base. Shinde criticized the opposition's tactics and reiterated his commitment to Hindutva, claiming his party has gained significant strength since the split.

Over a six-month period, the CISF protecting the Delhi Metro made headlines by recovering cash and valuables exceeding Rs 22.8 lakh, including gold and electronics. Additionally, they played a vital role in reuniting 69 missing children with their families and provided assistance to 152 women in distress. This demonstrates their unwavering dedication to enhancing commuter safety and service, fostering a sense of security for all passengers.

India's naval might is set to surge with the commissioning of three advanced, indigenously built warships in Kolkata on Sunday. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will preside over the ceremony for the stealth frigate Dunagiri, survey vessel Sanshodhak, and anti-submarine warfare craft Agray. These platforms significantly boost India's blue-water capabilities, coastal defense, and surveying prowess, showcasing the nation's growing shipbuilding prowess with over 75% indigenous content.

After several rounds of discussions at Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM), the Green Contribution Scheme is being finalised for implementation from Oct-Nov when Delhi and adjoining areas face severe air pollution. The scheme would cover around 5,000 sq km of NCR. People privy to the discussion said the green charge may be around Rs 1,000-1,300 for trucks and buses and Rs 500-650 for light goods vehicles and mini-buses.

Cross-voting significantly impacted Rajya Sabha elections in Jharkhandand Legislative Council elections in Karnataka, with both the INDIA bloc and NDA facing losses. While parties lauded rival cross-voters as exercising conscience, they condemned their own MLAs for betraying the party. This highlights a persistent double standard, where power dynamics, not ideology, drive these electoral outcomes despite past reforms aimed at curbing corruption.

An Indian voice challenges pervasive stereotypes, highlighting a double standard where Western actions are excused while Indian expressions of joy, culture, and presence are criticized. The piece argues that despite contributions in technology, medicine, and education, Indians face prejudice regarding civic sense, job competition, and cultural identity. It calls for judgment based on individual actions rather than generalizations, celebrating a rich heritage and resilient spirit.

Cockroach Janta Party founder Abhijeet Dipke slammed the Centre's Telegram ban ahead of the NEET re-exam, calling it a superficial fix. He highlighted ongoing student suicides and criticized the education system's commercialization. Dipke urged political leaders to prioritize student welfare over political gains, as Delhi Police bolstered security for an upcoming CJP protest.

A former DRDO scientist, Pradeep Kurulkar, faces charges in an espionage case, with trial set to begin next month. Accused of sharing classified defence information with a suspected Pakistani intelligence agent, Kurulkar's plea for discharge was rejected. Proceedings will be held in-camera due to the sensitive nature of the Official Secrets Act violations.

Ahead of the NEET-UG 2026 re-examination on June 21, the National Testing Agency (NTA) will conduct a nationwide mock drill on June 20. This measure aims to ensure a seamless process for the nearly 23 lakh candidates. The NTA is actively communicating with students, urging them to download fresh admit cards and warning against fraudulent messages.