West Asia war LIVE: Iran Guards say they hit U.S. military targets in Bahrain, Kuwait
Irans Revolutionary Guards said Tuesday they stopped two non-compliant oil tankers attempting to transit the Strait of Hormuz
From IAC to paper leaks: Why anti-system movements pose a unique political challenge | Explained
The IAC movement consciously projected itself as a citizens campaign, even though the Congress-led UPA maintained that it represented a collaboration between the RSS and civil society activists
Gangtok, July 21: Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang (Golay) has shared his sorrow over the tragic incident at the under-construction Samardung Tunnel of the NHPC [] The post Samardung Tunnel Gas Leak Tragedy : CM Mourns Samardung Tunnel Tragedy, Promises Full Support for Rescue Operations appeared first on The Voice Of Sikkim .
Canara HSBC Life Insurance Reports Strong Business Momentum, APE Up 19%, VNB rises by 29%
Canara HSBC Life Insurance Reports Strong Business Momentum, APE Up 19%, VNB rises by 29%
Infobip research reveals APAC businesses scaling AI-powered defenses to counter surge in automated fraud
Menarini Asia-Pacific and Pharmacosmos partner to bring first-in-class oncology supportive care therapy Cosela to Asian patients
The police action on one of the largest protests in the national capital in recent years left several people injured
Lionel Messi thanks Argentina fans: Wound will take time to heal
It is hard to fully appreciate our achievement right now, but this group reached two consecutive World Cup finals
Here is a select list of stories to start the day.
Namchi, July 21: The death toll from the gas leak at the under-construction Samardung Tunnel of the NHPC Teesta Stage VI Hydroelectric Project in Jholungey, [] The post Samardung Tunnel Gas Leak Tragedy: Death Toll Rises to Seven, Rescue Operations Continue Through the Night appeared first on The Voice Of Sikkim .
Flash floods kill at least 20 in Afghanistan and leave more than 100 missing
Unfortunately, severe floods today in Parun city and several other areas of Nuristan Province have caused heavy loss of life and property among our fellow citizens, says Afghan authorities
Six killed in floods, landslips in Northeast
Railway authorities cancelled, diverted, or short-terminated several passenger train services in Assam. At least 25 people have been killed across four States since the last week of June
Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary flags off special train carrying 1,100 pilgrims to Somnath Dham
Bihar government will bear the entire cost of the seven-day pilgrimage. Free pilgrimage will take place from July 20 to 26
Assam unveils mission to convert Muga silk waste into high-value yarn
Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma says that about 40% of the cocoons yielding the golden silk currently go unused due to the absence of proper processing facilities
BMC BJP corporator demands regular audit of the birth registration
Several corporators highlighted that the delay in birthday certificates is derailing study-abroad plans, visa applications for scores of residents, and document problems
World Cup belongs to all of Spain, says match-winning Torres
Ultimately, the goal belongs to 47 million people not just me or the 26 players, said Torres, referring to Spains approximate population
J&K Govt bans bike taxi operations on aggregator platforms until further orders
Srinagar, July 20: The Jammu and Kashmir Transport Department has prohibited the operation of two-wheelers on motor vehicle aggregator platforms across the Union Territory until a dedicated regulatory framework for bike taxi services is notified. Speaking to the media, Transport Commissioner Vishesh Paul Mahajan said the decisionhas beentaken to ensure compliance with the Jammu & Kashmir Motor Vehicle Aggregator Rules, 2023, under which only vehicles duly permitted to operate as commercial vehicles can be onboarded by aggregators. He saidit had come to the department's notice that certain aggregator platforms had either onboarded or were planning to onboard two-wheelers in violation of theexisting rules. As of now,there is no notified policy permittingbike taxi or two-wheeler aggregator operations in Jammu and Kashmir. Therefore, no aggregator licence holder shall onboard or operate any two-wheeler until further orders, Mahajan said. The Transport Commissioner directed all aggregator licence holders to immediately remove any two-wheelers already listed on their platforms and refrain from offering such services. He warned that any violation of the circular would invite legal action under the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, the applicable rules, and the conditions of the aggregator licence, including suspension or cancellation. The circular has come into force with immediate effect and will remain operative until a separate policy governing bike taxi services is notified by the government.
Rudi Garcia is not continuing as Belgium coach after reaching World Cup quarterfinals
Rudi Garcia is not continuing as Belgium coach after failing to reach agreement with the countrys soccer federation on a contract extension
Lara calls for celebration of 'father figure' Sobers
Among his many achievements, Sobers's 365 not out against Pakistan in 1958 stood as the highest individual innings in Test cricket for 36 years
Kevin Keegan, England soccer star who transcended the game with celebrity status, dies at 75
His death was announced on July 20 by his former club Newcastle, where he had been both a player and coach. Keegan revealed last month that he had stage four cancer
Supreme Court proposes SIT probe into Ram Temple case
Bench tells petitioners not to play politics with the donation embezzlement case; complainants had sought a CBI probe and publication of all financial details of Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust; court lists case for orders on July 27
Several hurt in crackdown on CJP Parliament march
Scores hospitalised with fractures, head and eye injuries; CJP leaders meet Nadda, demand Pradhans ouster; Wangchuk cites brutality, says will continue fast till MPs meet youth leaders or him
Gold chains snatched from women in Salem
DU to set up two control rooms to check ragging
Delhi clears implementation of Central scheme to phase out polluting commercial vehicles
PARIVARTAN scheme will incentivise replacement of highly polluting commercial vehicles with cleaner ones, leading to a reduction in air pollution, says CM; policy expected to benefit around 2.07 lakh truck and bus owners in Delhi-NCR
AAP hits out at BJP over police action on protesting students
Delhi L-G reviews monsoon preparedness; warns of action over flood lapses
Shining Stars Awards honour toppers in Alluri, Anakapalli districts
Primary Agriculture Cooperative society workers stage protest
Canada-India defence collaboration for a secure future
Shared interests drive Canada and India toward a stronger strategic defence partnership
Flyover sought at Lakshmi NagarKonavaikkal junction in Erode
Two held from Kochi as CBN seizes 30 tonnes of fighter drug in Delhi
Accommodating dissent: On the TVK governments actions
Using criminal law to protect reputation of rulers is condemnable
Structural stability assessment of KWA reservoirs in Kochi begins
The French firm SUEZ has begun non-destructive testing of the water utilitys reservoirs, pump houses and other infrastructure
Press and play: On the FIFA World Cup 2026
Spain smothered the opposition with possession and positional football
Defections affect moral sanctity of democracy
The greatest victim of political defections is not the Opposition party that loses a legislator. It is the voter
A hundred years ago | Australias new capital
Watch: U.Ks new Prime Minister Andy Burnham arrives at 10 Downing Street
Silencing the doubters, the Ro-Hit way
Lets just leave the former skipper to his devices. He knows not to overstay his welcome; lets accord him that respect, because it isnt a privilege but a right he has earned
Indus Waters Treaty will not remain operational in its present form, says official
He says India has placed the treaty in abeyance after the Pahalgam terror attack and ever since there has been no change in Pakistans sponsorship of terrorists
New Zealanders wake to a new major champion, heap praise on Ryan Fox
Fox vaulted from 56th in the Official World Golf Ranking to 22nd after capturing the Claret Jug over the weekend at Royal Birkdale in Southport, England
TNRERA imposes fine on real estate firm, directs it to complete promised amenities
WRD moves to protect reservoir catchment areas from pollution after residents raise concerns
AIP questions Smart City works over Srinagar waterlogging
Srinagar, July 20: Awami Ittehad Party on Monday expressed grave concern over the widespread waterlogging witnessed across Srinagar following heavy rainfall, saying the recurring crisis has exposed glaring failures in urban planning despite huge public expenditure under the Srinagar Smart City Project. In a statement, AIP Chief Spokesperson Inam Un Nabi said it is deeply unfortunate that over 792 crore has already been spent under the Srinagar Smart City Project since its inception, while the overall Smart City proposal for Srinagar envisaged projects worth more than 3,600 crore, yet large parts of the city continue to get submerged after every spell of heavy rain. After spending hundreds of crores of public money, if major roads, hospitals, residential areas, hotels, restaurants and business establishments are still inundated by a few hours of rainfall, then the people have every right to ask what exactly has been achieved, Inam Un Nabi said. Inam Un Nabi said the repeated flooding of Old City ( Shahar e Khass) Boulevard Road, Dalgate, Buchwara and several other vulnerable localities has caused immense hardship to residents, patients, commuters and traders, many of whom suffer heavy financial losses every monsoon. The AIP spokesperson said the government must fix accountability instead of treating every rainfall as an emergency. The people do not need temporary dewatering operations after every shower. They deserve a permanent engineering solution backed by scientific planning, modern stormwater drainage infrastructure, restoration of natural water channels, regular desilting and strict action against encroachments blocking drainage networks, he said. Inam Un Nabi further demanded an independent review of all drainage-related works executed under the Srinagar Smart City Project and by the Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC), saying responsibility must be fixed wherever public funds have failed to deliver the intended results.
Sunil Sharma-led BJP team visits flood-hit Poonch, Rajouri
Poonch/Rajouri, 20 July:- A BJP delegation led by Leader of Opposition in the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly, Sunil Sharma, on Monday visited the flood-affected areas of Poonch and Rajouri districts and met with families impacted by the unfortunate disaster. The delegation, as per a statement, took stock of the situation and interacted with the affected families. The delegation comprised Ravinder Raina, Sham Lal Sharma (MLA), Shehnaz Ganie, Gopal Mahajan, Mohan Lal (MLA), and Zorawar Singh. During the visit, Sunil Sharma listened to the concerns of the affected people, understood the challenges being faced by them, and conducted a detailed review of the situation on the ground. He expressed concern over the hardships faced by the affected families and assured them of continued support and assistance. Sharma directed the district administration to work with urgency and ensure that all possible help reaches the affected families without delay. He emphasised the importance of efficient rescue operations, immediate relief assistance, restoration of essential services, and a comprehensive rehabilitation plan to help people rebuild their lives. Sunil Sharma further stated that a detailed report of the situation in Poonch and Rajouri, including the extent of damage, losses suffered by the people, and requirements for relief and rehabilitation, will be submitted to the Central Government. He said that the concerns and demands of the affected families will be brought to the notice of the appropriate authorities so that necessary assistance and support can be ensured at the earliest. He added that the Central Government, under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, has always stood with the people during times of crisis and that all possible support will be sought through proper coordination with concerned agencies. Sharma stated that, in this difficult time, all agencies must work in close coordination with sensitivity and commitment so that affected families receive timely support and relief. He further stressed that the concerns of the people of Poonch and Rajouri must be addressed on priority and every possible effort should be made for their recovery and rehabilitation.
Minister Rajkumar inaugurates classrooms in Cuddalore
Eight classrooms have been constructed under the School Development grant scheme, the Minister said
Drygam shrine to get 81 lakh facelift, 8.5 cr bridge
Budgam, July 20: Speaker Legislative Assembly, Abdul Rahim Rather, on Monday visited the historic Drygam Shrine, a revered shrine associated with Hazrat Alamdar Sheikh Noor Din Noorani (RA), where he reviewed the ongoing beautification works and announced major developmental initiatives for the area. During the visit, the Speaker informed the gathering that an amount of 81 lakh has been sanctioned for development and beautification of the shrine to preserve its historical and religious significance while enhancing the facilities for devotees and visitors. In a major announcement aimed at improving the connectivity, Rather said that 8.50 crore have been earmarked for construction of bridge over Nallah Shaliganga at Reswani Tilwandagi Drygam. He directed the concerned officials to prepare the Detailed Project Report (DPR) for the project at the earliest so that work can be taken up in a time-bound manner. Addressing the gathering, the Speaker expressed concern over the neglect of the area possessing such immense historical and religious importance. He said he failed to understand why the region had remained overlooked for so long despite its significance. Reiterating his commitment to the people, Rather assured that he would make every possible effort to accelerate the overall development of the area and fulfill all genuine public demands. The Speaker also interacted with the local residents, who apprised him of various developmental issues and public concerns. Giving them a patient hearing, he assured them that all their genuine demands would be addressed in a phased manner. Local residents welcomed the announcements and expressed hope that the sanctioned projects would not only help preserve the rich heritage of the historic shrine but also strengthen the infrastructure, improve connectivity and enhance public amenities in the area. Later, the Speaker visited the revered Ziyarat of renowned Sufi poet Samad Mir at Nambalhar, where developmental works are currently underway. He was informed that an amount of 1.20 crore has already been sanctioned for the project. Stressing the importance of preserving the site's spiritual and cultural heritage, the Speaker directed the concerned officers to expedite the pace of work and ensure its completion within the stipulated timeframe while maintaining the highest standards of quality.
Kashmir forest eviction drive surpasses previous years
Srinagar, Jul 20: The Jammu and Kashmir Forest Department has evicted 1,972 encroachers and retrieved 525.75 hectares of forest land in the Kashmir region so far during the 2026-27 financial year, achieving nearly one-fifth of its annual eviction target, according to official data. Figures accessed by Rising Kashmir from the department show that authorities have completed 19.72 per cent of the target for evicting encroachers and 24.75 per cent of the land retrieval target set for the current financial year. For 2026-27, the department has fixed a target of evicting 10,000 encroachers and reclaiming 2,124.44 hectares of encroached forest land. As part of the drive, 10,038 eviction notices have already been issued, covering the entire targeted population, while 5,202 eviction orders have been issued, accounting for 52.02 per cent of the planned action. According to the data, the Kashmir region currently has 27,571 encroachers occupying 5,857.28 hectares of forest land. The year-wise statistics indicate a gradual decline in both the number of encroachers and the area under encroachment over the past eight years. The number of encroachers has fallen from 33,174 in 2019-20 to 27,571 in 2026-27, a reduction of 5,603 encroachers. During the same period, the area under encroachment has decreased from 7,215.86 hectares to 5,857.28 hectares, reflecting a net reduction of 1,358.58 hectares. The data also shows that the department has been carrying out regular eviction drives over the years. In 2019-20, 283 encroachers were evicted and 71.89 hectares of land retrieved. This increased to 1,541 evictions and 418.88 hectares reclaimed in 2020-21. In 2021-22, authorities evicted 424 encroachers and recovered 169.81 hectares, followed by 1,465 evictions and 316.98 hectares of land retrieval in 2022-23. During 2023-24, the department removed 1,043 encroachers and reclaimed 195.08 hectares, while 435 encroachers were evicted and 100.62 hectares recovered in 2024-25. In 2025-26, 408 encroachers were removed, leading to the retrieval of 91.52 hectares of forest land. The latest figures suggest that the department has intensified its anti-encroachment campaign in the current financial year, with the number of evictions already exceeding the annual figures recorded in the previous several years. The Forest Department has been conducting eviction drives across Jammu and Kashmir to reclaim forest land from illegal occupation as part of a broader conservation and protection strategy. Similar anti-encroachment operations have also been undertaken in other districts of the Union Territory in recent months.
Flash floods ravage Kargil, rain alert till July 25
Kargil, July 20: Widespread flash floods triggered by incessant rainfall have caused extensive damage across several villages in Kargil district, destroying agricultural land, standing crops, orchards, houses, shops, vehicles and irrigation infrastructure, while authorities have issued a fresh warning as more rainfall is forecast until July 25. Among the worst-affected areas are Budgam, Karkitchoo, Choskore, Silmo, Yokma Kharboo, besides Sangra, Chumikchan, Lalung, Karsikhar, Piyangkung, Sakpuri and several other villages where overflowing streams and flash floods inundated fields and damaged public infrastructure. Chief Executive Councillor (CEC), LAHDC Kargil, Dr Jaffar Akhoon, who visited the affected villages, said the losses suffered by farmers were severe as crops were on the verge of harvesting. Our agricultural land has been destroyed. The crops were almost ready for harvest and even the grass was ready. The damage to agriculture is enormous, he said while interacting with media during his inspection of flood-hit areas. According to Dr Akhoon, around 10 to 15 houses suffered damage in Sangra village, while several shops were also affected by the floods. In another tragic incident reported from Shumikchan, floodwaters swept away 12 to 14 milking cows, causing significant losses to livestock owners. He said standing crops in villages including Lalung, Karsikhar, Piyangkung and Sakpuri were badly damaged, while irrigation channels and headworks that supply water to farmlands were washed away. The irrigation headworks have been damaged in many places and drinking water supply systems have also suffered. Farmers have lost standing crops due to the destruction of irrigation infrastructure, he said. The CEC said several vehicles were also washed away in Karkitchoo and flood damage was reported from Brako, Chiktan, Yokma Kharboo and other villages. Following the widespread damage, the district administration has mobilised all departments, including disaster response agencies, to restore essential services and assess losses. Dr Akhoon said a high-level review meeting was held with officials of the district administration, NDRF and other concerned departments, directing all officers to remain on alert in view of the continuing weather threat. Control rooms have been activated at all sub-divisional levels, with the central control room functioning in Kargil. All officers have been instructed to stay vigilant and remain prepared for any unforeseen disaster, he said. He added that while every effort was being made to safeguard human lives, the agricultural sector had suffered heavy losses. Considering the forecast of heavy rainfall over the next two days, the district administration has also announced summer vacations for schools from Tuesday, except for students appearing in examinations, as a precautionary measure. Meanwhile, the Meteorological Centre Leh has predicted rainfall across parts of Ladakh until July 25, prompting authorities to advise people living near vulnerable streams and flood-prone areas to remain alert and avoid unnecessary movement during periods of intense rainfall. Flood-like situation in Ganderbal Heavy rainfall also affected the Safapora area of central Kashmir's Ganderbal district on Monday, where overflowing water created a flood-like situation, causing panic among residents. The incident damaged local property, inundated several areas and disrupted normal life. Authorities have begun assessing the extent of damage, while residents have appealed to the administration for immediate relief measures and restoration of damaged infrastructure. Officials have urged people in vulnerable areas of both Kargil and Ganderbal to exercise caution, follow weather advisories and cooperate with the administration as the wet spell is expected to continue over the coming days.
Jammu State demand gains ground, rally held in city
Jammu, July 20: The Jammu State Movement on Monday organised a rally in Jammu city, demanding the creation of a separate Jammu State. The march, which started from Raghunath Temple and concluded at Indira Chowk, witnessed participation from representatives of various social, religious, trade and nationalist organisations, besides youth and women. The participants raised slogans in support of a separate Jammu State and called for greater political representation, equal opportunities and balanced development of the region. Addressing the gathering, speakers alleged that Jammu had faced political, administrative and developmental neglect over the past several decades. They claimed that the regions resources, employment opportunities, education sector, industries and sports infrastructure had not received adequate attention. The organisers said the movement would continue through democratic and constitutional means and would be expanded across villages and towns of Jammu. The rally was attended by Jammu State Movement coordinator Atul Bakshi, Deepak Singh of Movement Kalki, Shiv Sena (Balasaheb Thackeray) J&K president Manish Sahni, Arjun Singh of Rashtriya Karni Sena and representatives of several other organisations. Later, the Jammu State Movement extended support to a protest by sportspersons and youth near the statue of Maharaja Hari Singh, demanding recognition and employment opportunities for athletes who have won medals at national and international levels. The movement alleged that deserving sportspersons were being denied their due rights and called for a merit-based approach in providing employment and recognition.
Statehood restoration a constitutional obligation: CPI(M)
Srinagar, July 20: Senior CPI(M) leader and MLA on Sunday expressed support for the National Conference-led protest in New Delhi, demanding restoration of full statehood to Jammu and Kashmir. Addressing a press conference in Srinagar, the CPI(M) leader said the dharna was aimed at reminding the Government of India of its repeated assurances regarding restoration of statehood, which, he said, were made by the Prime Minister and Union Home Minister on various occasions. He said restoration of statehood was not a concession but a constitutional obligation and a matter of democratic accountability. He urged the Centre to translate its commitments into action without further delay. The CPI(M) leader criticised the abrogation of Article 370 in August 2019, terming it undemocratic and unconstitutional, and said that despite large public participation in the 2024 Assembly elections, the demand for restoration of statehood remained pending. Referring to the 2021 all-party meeting on Jammu and Kashmir, he said assurances were given that statehood would be restored after delimitation and Assembly elections. He also cited statements made before the 2024 elections and during proceedings before the Supreme Court regarding the issue. He said political parties across ideological lines had come together on the demand and urged the government to respect the collective voice seeking restoration of full statehood. The CPI(M) leader said lasting peace and normalcy in Jammu and Kashmir required meaningful engagement with stakeholders and addressing the trust deficit. He added that CPI(M) general secretary M A Baby and J&K CPI(M) secretary Mohammad Abbas Rather were participating in the protest in Delhi. He also raised concerns over the treatment of Ladakh activist Sonam Wangchuk, stating that such developments raised questions about the space available for peaceful democratic expression.
CPI (M) stages protest against forceful removal of Sonam Wangchuk during hunger strike
CPI (M) workers staged the demonstration under the leadership of party local unit secretary S. Ramachandran
Quiet defiance: The aftermath of the Jantar Mantar crackdown
As the sun set on Jantar Mantar, the scene underwent a stark transformation. While the thousands who had gathered earlier were gone, the protest site was not empty. A core group of dozens of protesters remained, choosing to occupy the site despite the earlier crackdown.
Best performing students urged to become role models at Shining Stars award event
Nithin Raj murder: M.K. Ram arrested, court orders his release
Court finds procedural lapses in arrest. The former teacher of Kannur Dental College had been absconding for weeks after the High Court rejected his anticipatory bail in connection with the death of BDS student Nithin Raj. He was arrested in Coorg on Monday. Nithins family blames caste-based harassment for his suicide
NC protests in Delhi, seeks restoration of statehood, rights
Srinagar, 20, July: The Jammu & Kashmir National Conference on Monday held a protest in New Delhi, demanding the restoration of statehood and safeguarding of the rights and dignity of the people of Jammu and Kashmir. The party called upon the Centre to honour its commitments made to the people of the region without any further delay. In a statement, the party said, similar protest demonstrations were organized by the National Conference at the party headquarters, Nawa-e-Subha Complex in Srinagar, Sher-i-Kashmir Bhawan in Jammu, and in all districts across Jammu & Kashmir. Local party leaders, office-bearers and workers participated in large numbers, reiterating the demand for the restoration of the constitutional rights of the people and the reinstatement of full statehood. The protest in New Delhi was led by National Conference President Dr. Farooq Abdullah and attended by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, Cabinet Ministers, Members of Parliament from both the Rajya Sabha and Lok Sabha, MLAs, senior party leaders, office-bearers, and representatives of the Youth and Women's Wings. During the protest, Delhi Police imposed restrictions on the demonstrators and also resorted to tear gas shelling. Protesters carried placards demanding the restoration of the rights and dignity of the people of Jammu & Kashmir, the restoration of statehood, and the fulfillment of commitments made by the Central Government. Addressing the gathering, Dr. Farooq Abdullah said that the party had assembled in the national capital to seek the restoration of the rights, dignity and honour of the people of Jammu & Kashmir, along with the full restoration of statehood. He said they had come to remind the Central Government of the promises made by the Prime Minister and the Union Home Minister. He noted that these assurances had also been made before Parliament, the Supreme Court and the people of Jammu & Kashmir, and stressed that the time had come for those promises to be honoured. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah said the delegation had travelled to the country's capital to peacefully demand what rightfully belongs to the people of Jammu & Kashmir, but regretted that even peaceful protest was not being permitted. He said democratic rights were being curtailed, adding that the party had intended to stage a peaceful sit-in at Jantar Mantar to remind the Central Government of its commitment, made in Parliament and before the Supreme Court, to restore Jammu & Kashmir's statehood soon after the Assembly elections. He further stated that the Supreme Court had directed that the restoration of statehood should take place at the earliest. If the Government did not intend to comply with the Court's observations, it should state so openly, he said, instead of repeatedly assuring that statehood would be restored at an appropriate time without ever defining what that appropriate time was. Omar Abdullah said that because Jammu & Kashmir lies far from the political centre of the country, its concerns often fail to receive adequate national attention, compelling the party to come to New Delhi to remind the Government of its commitments. He added that despite facing restrictions and tear gas, the National Conference remained committed to pursuing its demands through peaceful and democratic means. Meanwhile, a separate programme in support of the restoration of the rights of the people of Jammu & Kashmir and the restoration of statehood was held at the National Conference Headquarters, Nawa-e-Subha Complex, Srinagar. The programme was chaired by Srinagar District President Pir Afaq Ahmad and attended by party office-bearers, workers and people from different walks of life. At the conclusion of the programme, participants took out a peaceful protest march in support of their demands. However, the march, as per the statement, was stopped from proceeding further by a heavy deployment of police and security personnel, preventing the procession from moving along its designated route.
One hotel ordered to shut, two eateries fined in food safety inspection in Ernakulam
NLC India Renewables Limited appoints book running lead managers for IPO
The BRLMs shall advise the company in the preparation and management of the IPO, including undertaking due diligence, preparation of offer documents and coordination with regulatory authorities and intermediaries, NLCIL says
From protest to crackdown? Inside the Jantar Mantar clashes | Ground Report
Tensions flared at Jantar Mantar in Delhi as protests took a violent turn. Protesters, including students, expressed anger and disappointment after Delhi Police used tear gas, lathi-charged the crowd, and forcefully dismantled tents to disperse the gathering. While the crowd has been cleared for now, it remains a matter of wait and watch to see if the demonstrations will continue.
Hungarys ruling party backs chess legend Judit Polgar for President
Prime Minister Peter Magyar said that he would ask Ms. Polgar, widely regarded as the greatest ever female chess player, to take up the largely ceremonial role of President until a new constitution is passed
Portfolio list submitted to Lt. Governor, says Chief Minister Rangasamy
However, the Chief Minister did not state when the portfolio list will be published
Handwara man donates 13 kanals for village sports field
Handwara, Jul 19: In a rare act of generosity, Mohammad Abdullah Dar, an elderly resident of Prongroo village in Mawer area of North Kashmir's Handwara town, has donated 13 kanals of his privately owned land for the development of a sports field, drawing widespread appreciation from locals and sportspersons. The donation is expected to provide a dedicated playground for the youth of the village, who have long been demanding a proper sports facility. Locals said Dar did not hesitate when he was approached with the proposal for a playground. They said he immediately agreed to donate his land, putting the interests of the younger generation above personal ownership. We had been dreaming of a playground for years. The moment we discussed the idea with Mohammad Abdullah Dar, he announced that he would donate his land. It is a gesture we will never forget, said a local player. Another sportsperson Dar Umar said the donation would encourage more youngsters to participate in sports instead of spending their free time without any recreational facilities. People often fight over even a small piece of land, but he donated 13 kanals for the future of our youth. His contribution will inspire many others, Dar said. The locals described Dar's decision as an example of selfless service and said the sports field would benefit generations of young players from the area. They also expressed hope that proper infrastructure would now be developed at the site. Meanwhile, local MLA Shiekh Khursheed visited the village during a sports event and announced Rs 5 lakh for the development of the sports field. His announcement was welcomed by residents, who said the financial support would help create better facilities for local players. The people of Prongroo have hailed Mohammad Abdullah Dar's generosity and vision, saying his contribution is a lasting gift to the village and a powerful reminder that community welfare is built through selfless acts.
MLA seals PHE office over drinking water issues
Handwara, Jul 20: MLA Langate Sheikh Khursheed on Monday locked the Public Health Engineering, PHE, Sub Division office at Handwara LFR after allegedly finding the office without any officials or employees present during a scheduled visit to discuss drinking water issues affecting several areas of the Langate constituency. Speaking to Rising Kashmir, the MLA said the department had been informed in advance about his visit. He said he had planned to meet officials along with a delegation of local residents to raise concerns over the ongoing water scarcity in different villages and seek immediate solutions. However, upon reaching the office, the MLA claimed that none of the officers or employees were present despite prior intimation. Calling it a serious case of negligence, he locked the office in protest and accused the department of ignoring public grievances. Later, Sheikh Khursheed staged a sit in outside the main gate of the office. He was joined by several Awami Ittehad Party workers, women, and local residents, who raised slogans and demanded accountability from the department over the continued drinking water crisis. The MLA also alleged that funds had already been made available for improving potable drinking water facilities in various parts of the constituency. Despite the availability of funds, he claimed that the department had failed to execute the approved works, leaving many areas without adequate water supply. Following the protest, officials from the district administration, including the Tehsildar Handwara, accompanied by a police team, reached the spot and held discussions with the protesting MLA. The officials assured Sheikh Khursheed that the matter would be investigated and that strict action would be taken against any officials found responsible for negligence or dereliction of duty. They also assured him that necessary steps would be taken to address the drinking water issues raised by the delegation and improve the functioning of the department.
Wildlife team traps third leopard in Budgam
Budgam, July 20: A prolonged man-animal conflict mitigation operation at Ompora Housing Colony in central Kashmir's Budgam district concluded successfully after two leopards were safely captured during the intervening night of July 19 and 20, taking the total number of leopards trapped in the area to three. Ranger Officer, Wildlife Control Budgam, Sajjid Faruk, said one leopard had already been captured on June 21, while the remaining two were trapped following an intensive overnight operation. The second leopard was captured at around 12:15 a.m., while the third was trapped at approximately 5:30 a.m. on July 20 after sustained surveillance and coordinated field operations throughout the night, Faruk said. He said Ompora and its adjoining localities had remained a persistent hotspot for leopard movement, prompting the Department of Wildlife Protection to establish a temporary Man-Animal Conflict (MAC) camp in the area on May 21, 2026. As leopard sightings continued and public concern grew, the facility was upgraded into a 247 MAC Control Room on June 5, 2026. According to Faruk, wildlife personnel remained stationed at Ompora for nearly three months, carrying out round-the-clock surveillance, responding to public alerts and maintaining trapping arrangements under challenging field conditions. The operation was carried out by me along with the field team led by Block Officer Bashir Ahmad. Their sustained presence, professional handling of the situation and close coordination with supporting agencies played a vital role in the successful outcome, he said. Faruk said the Wildlife Protection Department received extensive support from the Forest Protection Force Units K-01 Srinagar and K-03 Budgam, officials of the Pir Panjal Forest Division, District Police Budgam, the district administration and other local authorities, who helped maintain public safety and facilitated field operations. The coordinated efforts of all participating departments ensured the safe and humane capture of the three leopards, significantly reducing the immediate threat to residents of Ompora and adjoining areas. Wildlife Warden, Wetlands Division Kashmir, Altaf Hussain, commended the dedication and professionalism of the Man-Animal Conflict team and the supporting agencies. The successful operation is an example of effective interdepartmental coordination in managing human-wildlife conflict while safeguarding both human lives and wildlife, said Wildlife Warden, Altaf Hussain.
Police recommend suspension of 2,747 driving licences for traffic offences in Puducherry
During the drive held from January to June, the police have registered cases against persons involved in rash and dangerous driving under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and Motor Vehicles Act
U Mumba TT crowned UTT Juniors champion
The triumph was built around the impressive performances of top draft pick Ahona Ray and a promising youngster, Somdev Sengupta
Beware of fraudsters claiming to secure medical seats, warns Karnataka Examinations Authority
M.B. Patil pitches KWIN City to Luxembourg; plans a Japan semiconductor roadshow at Fukuoka
Police outnumbered, taken aback by number of protesters who reached Parliaments doorstep
Sensing a surge in the crowd, the government made the first outreach to CJP on Sunday evening; the crowd had gathered based on a call given by the online youth group, Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), to march to Parliament demanding the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradesh over the recent NEET(UG) examination leak
Veera Vasantharayar Mandapam renovation to be over before consecration
However, court clarifies that this order is not an expression of opinion on other issues related to acquisition notifications
Government cracks down on Cockroach Janta Party protest in Delhi, net snapped
Scores hospitalised with fractures, head and eye injuries; CJP leaders meet Nadda, demand Pradhans ouster; Wangchuk cites brutality, says will continue fast till MPs meet youth leaders or him
Auto Drivers Association protests against illegal autorickshaw operations in Kalaburagi
Members of the Kalyana Karnataka Auto Drivers Association staged a protest in Kalaburagi on Monday, alleging a rise in the operation of unauthorised autorickshaws and app-based transport services that they claim are functioning in violation of transport regulations.
The top court was hearing activist Gulshan Pahujas plea challenging a High Court order refusing to extend his time to surrender; he has been sentenced to six months imprisonment for criminal contempt over allegedly derogatory videos targeting judicial officers
Kalaburagi Police launch Beda Bro and Operation RISE anti-drug awareness campaigns
The Kalaburagi City and District Police on Monday launched the No Bro and Operation RISE anti-drug awareness campaign to strengthen efforts against drug abuse, trafficking and illegal sale of narcotic substances across the district.
Youth beats mother to death in Perungudi, arrested
The accused was allegedly under mental stress after failing in his Class 12 examinations
New Delhi [India], July 20 (ANI): Four Indian nationals have been killed in an attack on the vessel MV Golden Leo during departure from the port of Odesa in Ukraine on Sunday evening, while one is critically injured. The Ministry of External Affairs confirmed the death toll in an official statement, noting that at the time of the incident, the vessel had 17 crew members on board, including 5 Indians. On the evening of 19 July 2026, the vessel MV GOLDEN LEO was attacked while departing the port of Odesa. At the time of the incident, there were 17 crew members on board, including 5 Indian nationals. As per information available, four Indian nationals have tragically lost their lives, while one is hospitalised in a critical condition, the MEA stated. The MEA expressed condolences to the bereaved families and stated that India's mission in Ukraine is closely monitoring the situation while assuring assistance to all those affected. Our Mission in Ukraine is closely monitoring the situation and is making every effort to extend all possible assistance to those affected. We extend our deepest condolences to the families of the deceased Indian nationals and wish the injured Indian national a speedy and full recovery. Furthermore, the MEA strongly condemned the attack and emphasised that argeting commercial shipping and endangering innocent civilian crew members, or otherwise impeding freedom of navigation and commerce, is deplorable and should be avoided. This statement comes as the Ukrainian Navy accused Russia of launching a missile attack on a civilian vessel, Golden Leo, carrying a cargo of grain late Sunday evening (local time). In an official statement posted, the Ukrainian Navy stated that, Russian occupiers launched a strike using three Kh-59/Kh-69 cruise missiles against the civilian bulk carrier GOLDEN LEO (flying the flag of Guinea-Bissau, owned by Turkey). At the moment of the attack, the vessel was moving out of the combat zone carrying a cargo of grain. The Navy further stated that the impact of the strike hit the starboard side of the superstructure, causing a fire on board. It noted that 5 people were killed while the fate of another 5 crew members remains unknown. Search operations are currently underway. The technical condition of the vessel is being assessed, it stated. The statement further said that the units of the Navy along with the Maritime Search and Rescue Service were deployed immediately to assist. It added that as of of 10:30 PM on Sunday, eight crew members have been evacuated to a hospital in Odesa.The Ukrainian navy expressed strong condemnation of the Russian strike, recognising it as an act of terror. This is yet another targeted strike by Russia against an unarmed civilian vessel flying a foreign flag, which posed no military threat. The attack is an act of terror against peaceful shipping and a blatant violation of international humanitarian law, the Navy stated. (ANI)
Tunnelling starts near KNK Road. The machines will mostly drill under Uthamar Gandhi Road, Valluvar Kottam Road, and some buildings. Officials say the tunnel will be completed by next January
Nine arrested in Guntur assault case
Superintendent of Police warns that strict legal action will be taken against anyone spreading false information, making objectionable remarks about the woman or circulating content that harms her dignity through social media or other platforms
It was a rewarding experience as a captain: Shubhang
30,000 students, 1,100 seats: Delhi Universitys one-year PG rollout hits a roadblock
Philippines accuses Chinese coast guard of injuring Filipino sailor in disputed shoal
Chinese and Philippines authorities are blaming each other for a row on Monday between Chinese coast guard personnel and Philippine sailors in a disputed shoal in the South China Sea
Harmanpreet finding it tough, says Edulji who calls for split-captaincy
The former India skipper feels its time to hand over the captaincy to Smriti in the white-ball formats
Ultimate Table Tennis | Sathiyan stars to keep Delhis semifinal hopes alive
Israelis march to Gaza border demanding re-establishment of settlements
SC gives Centre 4-weeks to confer gallantry award on former Madhya Pradesh cop
Justice Nath questioned why the government could not comply with the direction while simultaneously pursuing its review petition
India joins WTOs agreement on fisheries subsidies
India deposited its Instrument of Acceptance of the WTO Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies (AFS) on 20th July 2026, thereby becoming a Party to the Agreement, the Commerce Ministry said in a statement
Ukrainian and Russian strikes kill over a dozen civilians
Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin said that over 400 Ukrainian drones were sent toward the Russian capital from late on July 19, until early on July 20
