Top News / The Times of India
An IndiGo flight 6E 813, en route from Goa to Indore, experienced a technical issue just before landing on Monday. According to an IndiGo spokesperson, the aircraft landed safely in Indore and will undergo thorough checks as per protocol before resuming operations.
Officials reported that between 1960 and 1975, following the Partition, thousands of displaced families from East Pakistan were resettled in the districts of Pilibhit, Lakhimpur Kheri, Bijnor, and Rampur.
Assam's Chief Minister, Himanta Biswa Sarma, asserted that approximately 10 lakh acres in Assam are encroached upon by illegal Bangladeshis and doubtful citizens. Despite facing international pressure to halt eviction operations, particularly after the 2021 Darrang district drive, the government remains resolute. Sarma highlighted the Gorukhuti operation's success, where 25,000 acres were cleared, and pledged to reclaim all encroached land.
Assam's chief minister, Himanta Biswa Sarma, addressed concerns regarding China's Brahmaputra dam project, stating there's no immediate cause for alarm as the river's flow relies on multiple sources, including Bhutan, Arunachal Pradesh, and local rainfall. He acknowledged conflicting views on the dam's impact and expressed confidence in the Union government's handling of discussions with China on this significant infrastructure endeavor.
In a day of aviation incidents, an Air India flight skidded off a Mumbai runway during heavy rain, damaging its engine and tyres. Simultaneously, a Bangladeshi air force training jet crashed into a Dhaka school, resulting in 19 fatalities and numerous injuries. Adding to global tensions, Israel launched airstrikes on Yemen's Hodeidah port, targeting Houthi military assets.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi convened a significant high-level meeting in Parliament on Monday, with key BJP leaders in attendance. The discussions likely centered on strategizing and making crucial decisions concerning the ongoing Monsoon session, which commenced on the same day and is scheduled to continue until August 21. Modi hailed the session as a 'Vijay Utsav,' celebrating the armed forces' capabilities.
The Supreme Court has criticized the misuse of criminal law for civil disputes, particularly in money recovery cases. It expressed concern over High Courts ignoring previous rulings and emphasized that a breach of contract doesn't automatically constitute cheating unless fraudulent intent is proven from the start.
The Monsoon session of Parliament began with heated debates, primarily concerning US President Trump's claims regarding 'Operation Sindoor'. Opposition MPs demanded discussions, leading to adjournments in both houses. Prime Minister Modi hailed India's military strength. Tributes were paid to victims of the Pahalgam attack and the Air India crash, which Civil Aviation Minister Kinjarapu Rammohan Naidu addressed.
Over 200 MPs have initiated impeachment proceedings against Justice Yashwant Varma following the discovery of burnt cash at his residence in March. The motion, supported by members across party lines, cites constitutional articles and a report recommending his removal. The Supreme Court has declined to urgently hear a petition related to the case, as Justice Varma denies any wrongdoing.
Civil Aviation minister K Rammohan Naidu assured the Rajya Sabha that the AAIB is diligently investigating the Air India crash, which claimed 260 lives, following a rule-based and unbiased process. The investigation aims to uncover the truth behind the incident, utilizing data from the black boxes decoded domestically for the first time.
West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee launched a scathing attack on the BJP, accusing them of targeting Bengalis and attempting to erase their identity. She warned of intensified protests against BJP's alleged anti-Bengali actions and accused the Election Commission of conspiring to remove Bengali names from voter lists.
The Monsoon Session of Parliament commenced amidst heated debates, with Mallikarjun Kharge and JP Nadda clashing over the government's handling of the Pahalgam terror attack and Operation Sindoor. Kharge demanded a two-day debate, citing intelligence failures and lack of accountability, while Nadda affirmed the government's readiness for discussion, criticising Kharge for divulging operational details.
Congress members celebrated Mallikarjun Kharge's 83rd birthday with enthusiasm. Rahul Gandhi lauded Kharge's leadership and dedication, while Priyanka Gandhi Vadra baked a sugar-free cake for him, reflecting the party's values. Even PM Modi extended his wishes for Kharge's health and long life.
Rahul Gandhi expressed his frustration on Monday, stating that as the Leader of the Opposition, he is not being given the opportunity to speak in the Lok Sabha while government members are freely making statements. He criticized Prime Minister Modi for leaving the House quickly and emphasized the opposition's demand for a discussion on Operation Sindoor.
The Supreme Court declined an urgent hearing for a petition seeking FIR registration against Justice Yashwant Varma concerning the cash-at-home controversy. Allegations of misconduct arose after a fire at his residence revealed a large sum of unaccounted cash. A prior inquiry led to impeachment recommendations, which Justice Varma is now challenging.
The Supreme Court dismissed the Enforcement Directorate's plea against a Karnataka High Court order, which had quashed proceedings against B.M. Parvathi, wife of Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, in a land allotment case. The court questioned the ED's involvement, suggesting political battles should be resolved by voters.
The Lok Sabha's Monsoon Session commenced turbulently, adjourning shortly after convening due to opposition uproar. MPs demanded Prime Minister Modi address Donald Trump's claims regarding Operation Sindoor, disrupting initial proceedings despite Speaker Birla's assurances of later discussion.
The Supreme Court has demanded reports from Sharda University and IIT Kharagpur following recent student suicides. The court expressed concern about systemic issues potentially driving students to such extremes, warning of contempt proceedings if FIRs are delayed.
The National Human Rights Commission has directed states and Union Territories to register eligible prisoners, aged 70 or above, for the Pradhan Mantri Ayushman Vaya Vandana Yojana.
Prime Minister Modi commenced the Monsoon session of Parliament with celebratory remarks, highlighting India's military strength demonstrated in Operation Sindoor, which targeted terror camps. He lauded the nation's space achievements and economic progress, noting its rise towards becoming the world's third-largest economy.
Just before the Monsoon Session, Jairam Ramesh attacked PM Narendra Modi. He questioned Modi's presence in Parliament. Ramesh alleged Modi prioritizes foreign trips. He mocked Modi's address and infrequent parliamentary appearances. The session anticipates debates on internal security and foreign relations. Discussions include the Pahalgam attack and Trump's mediation claims. Further criticism targeted Modi's travel schedule amidst domestic issues.
The Monsoon Session of Parliament is set to commence, featuring 15 bills for consideration, including key legislation on finance, commerce, and income tax. A new digital attendance system will be implemented for MPs, enhancing transparency. Discussions are anticipated on Operation Sindoor and international relations, alongside debates on crucial policy updates across various sectors.
Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar has urged national unity amidst ongoing language controversies. He emphasized India's linguistic richness, highlighting Sanskrit, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, Hindi, and Marathi. Dhankhar stated languages should unite, not divide, and those using language divisively should embrace Indian culture.
In Odisha's Puri district, a 15-year-old girl was set ablaze by unidentified men and heroically saved by Dukshishyam Senapati, who provided aid and contacted her family after she sought refuge at his home.
Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju announced that over 100 MPs have signed a notice to initiate a removal motion against Justice Yashwant Varma in the Lok Sabha. The motion has crossed the required threshold to be introduced. The Business Advisory Committee will decide when the motion will be moved and discussed in the House.
Despite repeated threats in 2023 and 2024, the National Medical Commission (NMC) has again warned medical colleges about failing to pay stipends to interns and resident doctors. The NMC threatens penalties, including financial fines and suspension of admissions, for non-compliance. Previous surveys revealed widespread stipend non-payment, yet no action has been taken against defaulting colleges.
Uddhav Thackeray has affirmed the alliance with his cousin Raj Thackeray, emphasizing their commitment to Maharashtra's progress and Marathi identity. He stated that discussions are ongoing and expressed readiness to act in the interest of Marathi people, language, and culture. Thackeray also addressed concerns about potential local-level decisions by Congress within the MVA alliance for municipal elections.
Mumbai police arrested an airline employee. A 23-year-old airhostess accused him of rape. The incident reportedly happened at his residence on June 30. They had dinner together on June 29. Afterwards, they went to his flat. The woman filed a complaint on July 18. Police are investigating the delay in reporting. The accused was apprehended near Sahar airport.
PM Narendra Modi will visit the UK this week. He will meet Keir Starmer to discuss trade, technology, defence, and education. A free trade agreement is expected to be formalised. Modi will also visit Maldives as guest of honour on their Independence Day. This marks a turnaround in relations since President Muizzu assumed office.
In Haryana's Kaithal, a district court sentenced two brothers to life imprisonment for the 2017 murder of their sister's husband, deeming it an 'honour killing'. Sunil and Dilbagh, unhappy with Pooja's love marriage to Balinder Singh, lured him to Kaithal and fatally shot him.
In Budaun, a special Pocso court convicted Mahendra Kumar of raping a 5-year-old girl, sentencing him to 20 years of rigorous imprisonment. The victim identified Kumar by his moustache, and her testimony, along with supporting evidence, proved crucial in the conviction. The crime occurred on February 27, 2023, when Kumar assaulted the girl while her mother collected fodder nearby.
Amit Shah directed the formation of a multi-sectoral central team. This is to mitigate losses from natural disasters. The team includes experts from various institutions. This follows a review of disasters in Himachal Pradesh. The Union government has deputed an Inter-Ministerial Central Team. They will assess damages in the state.
A political storm erupted in Maharashtra after videos surfaced allegedly showing Agriculture Minister Manikrao Kokate playing an online card game during an assembly session. The controversy escalated when members of Chhava Sanghatna protested at an NCP press conference, demanding Kokate's resignation, leading to violence between NCP workers and activists.
A UGC fact-finding committee has implicated KIIT University in the suicides of two students, citing illegal activities and criminal liability. The report highlights failures in handling sexual harassment complaints, substandard hostel conditions, and excessive student intake. The UGC is considering freezing expansion and pursuing departmental action against responsible officials due to the university's negligence.
The Union government is poised to introduce a sports governance bill in Parliament, aiming to bolster India's bid for the 2036 Olympic Games. This bill proposes establishing a National Sports Board to oversee national sports governing bodies and ensure compliance. It mandates athlete representation within these bodies and introduces a National Sports Election Panel for fair elections.
Fauja Singh, the 114-year-old marathon runner, passed away after being hit by a car. His funeral took place with state honors in his native village of Beas. Many people including Governor Gulab Chand Kataria and Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann paid their respects. Prime Minister Narendra Modi also shared a message.
A 15-year-old girl in Odisha's Puri district, who was allegedly set on fire by three masked men, has been airlifted to AIIMS New Delhi for treatment. The victim, a class 9 dropout, sustained 70-75% burn injuries after being attacked near a river embankment.
The Punjab Police solved Fauja Singh's death case. This success highlights a concerning trend across India. Many states classify road accident deaths as 'hit and run'. NCRB data reveals inconsistencies in reporting. Experts question the accuracy of road accident data. They call for a review of data collection methods. Some states show better reporting practices than others.
The Haj Committee of India introduces a 20-day Haj package for 2026, a first, with 10,000 slots available via lottery if needed. Applications are due by July 31. India's quota is 1,75,000 pilgrims, 1,25,000 through HCOI, the rest via private operators. The short trip, from seven cities, costs the same as the longer 40-45 day pilgrimage due to pre-booked arrangements.
In Himachal Pradesh's Sirmaur district, a woman, Sunita Chauhan, married two brothers, Pradeep and Kapil Negi, in a public ceremony, celebrating the Hatti tribe's polyandry tradition. The wedding, a rare open display of the custom, saw the trio sharing the stage and receiving blessings.
Chanda Kochhar, former CEO of ICICI Bank, was found guilty of accepting bribes. The appellate tribunal stated that she received Rs 64 crore through her husband from Videocon group. This payment was a quid-pro-quo for sanctioning a Rs 300 crore loan. The tribunal criticized the previous relief given to the accused. It validated the ED's attachment of assets.
Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath has warned that miscreants posing as Kanwariyas to incite violence during the pilgrimage will face strict action, including public identification. He accused anti-social elements of tarnishing the Yatra's image and urged genuine devotees to expose them.