After chaotic scenes in the Bengal assembly over the past two days, Trinamool Congress MLA Kunal Ghosh on Friday came under fresh pressure in the West Bengal Assembly.

This comes after Parliamentary Affairs Minister Shankar Ghosh moved a privilege motion against the Beleghata MLA for allegedly insulting the Chair during the chaotic scenes witnessed over the past two days.

Speaker Rathin Ghosh informed the House that the privilege notice had been accepted for consideration. The development follows unprecedented disruptions inside the Assembly over a dispute within the Trinamool Congress legislature party regarding speaking opportunities during budget discussions.

The controversy began on Wednesday when Kunal Ghosh protested after allegedly being denied permission to participate in the debate despite his name being recommended.

The protest escalated into heated exchanges and jostling on the floor of the House, prompting the Speaker to suspend Ghosh for the day and direct marshals to escort him out of the Assembly.

Tensions resurfaced on Thursday when senior TMC leader Sobhandeb Chattopadhyay sought to raise the previous day’s developments at the start of proceedings. The Speaker described the incident as “highly disgraceful”, triggering sharp protests from legislators aligned with the Kalighat faction of the ruling party, who objected to the characterisation.

On Friday, Shankar Ghosh alleged that Kunal Ghosh’s conduct amounted to a serious breach of legislative privilege, contending that his remarks and behaviour had undermined the dignity of the Speaker’s office and the decorum of the Assembly. Responding in the House, Kunal Ghosh denied intentionally disrespecting the Chair but expressed regret if his actions had been perceived that way.

“I did not insult your Chair. If you feel that I have shown disrespect to the Chair, then I am sorry,” he said. The MLA maintained that the dispute stemmed from repeated denial of opportunities to speak in the Assembly rather than any personal grievance against the Speaker.

He claimed that he and other legislators had raised the matter with the Chief Minister, who had asked the Parliamentary Affairs Minister to examine the issue and ensure that they were given an opportunity to participate in debates.

Kunal Ghosh also openly acknowledged differences with the party’s chief whip, Ritabrata Banerjee, alleging that his name had repeatedly been dropped from the list of speakers despite recommendations from Chattopadhyay.

“There is a major problem with the chief whip. This is a reality and cannot be denied. Our names are being sent, but my name is repeatedly removed. That is the root of the present dispute,” he said.

While accepting the privilege motion, Speaker Rathin Ghosh advised both factions within the ruling party to resolve their internal differences outside the House and ensure that the dignity and functioning of the Assembly are not affected by organisational disputes.

A case has been registered against eight people, including a police constable, over the alleged abduction and sexual exploitation of a woman, who was forced to undergo religious conversion and marriage.

In her complaint, the mother of the victim has claimed that a police constable, named Asif, who was posted at Fatehpur Kotwali in 2024, made attempts to sexually harass her daughter and even pressured her to convert to Islam, PTI reported.

When the woman resisted, the accused is said to have lured her with financial offers. Later on, he got her in touch with Javed, a resident of Basara village working in Saudi Arabia.

Police officials said that Javed allegedly made multiple attempts to brainwash the victim through social media.

As per the complaint, after returning from Saudi Arabia, Javed then took the woman with him on January 2, raped her and forced to adopt Islam.

During this period, the woman was allegedly forced to undergo abortion twice.

A few days ago, Javed reportedly took the woman to a mazar in the Masauli area, where a cleric forcibly solemnised their ‘nikah’. He was joined by two of his relatives – Rehan and Hamza.

Based on the woman’s complaint, police has registered an FIR in connection with the matter and recorded the her statement, Additional Superintendent of Police Vikas Chandra Tripathi said.

Thousands of tea workers under the banner of the Joint Forum of Operating Trade Unions of the Tea Industry of West Bengal staged demonstrations outside tea estates across the Terai, Dooars and Darjeeling hills on Friday before joining work.

The workers demanded an early resolution of long-pending industrial disputes and workers’ welfare issues.

The forum had submitted an 11-point memorandum on 20 July to tea garden managements, the Consultative Committee of Plantation Associations (CCPA), the Labour Commissioner, the Principal Secretary of the Labour Department, the Tea Board Chairman and other authorities. The unions also submitted reminders seeking immediate action on their demands.

The charter calls for notification and implementation of minimum wages for tea workers, revision of salaries for monthly-paid employees, better wages and incentives for machine operators, and an end to arbitrary increases in daily workloads and wage deductions.

The unions also demanded equal pay for equal work, paid maternity and sick leave, full AAY ration benefits, proper sanitation facilities, crèches and rest sheds in tea gardens, and a uniform retirement age of 60 years.

The forum further urged the Centre and the state government to provide greater financial support to the tea industry, introduce a minimum support price for green tea leaves and a floor price for made tea, revive closed and abandoned tea gardens, and ensure timely payment of gratuity, provident fund and pension benefits through hassle-free digital transfers.

Convener of the Joint Forum, Ziaul Alam, said, “The government should immediately resolve the long-pending industrial disputes by notifying minimum wages and addressing the legitimate demands of tea workers. The survival of lakhs of tea workers and the future of the tea industry depend on timely action.”

“The severe distress faced by tea workers has pushed migration to an unprecedented level, with many leaving tea gardens to work on tunnel, road, and bridge construction projects, including those undertaken by government agencies. Tragically, many have lost their lives while engaged in such hazardous work,” Alam said, adding, “The tea community of North Bengal will not remain silent over this prolonged injustice and inhuman treatment meted out to tea workers.”

The unions also reiterated their opposition to the West Bengal Land Reforms (Amendment) Bill, 2023, the order declaring surplus tea garden land for resumption, and the Tea Tourism and Allied Business Policy, 2019.

Referring to a memorandum submitted to the then chief minister in 2023, they said these measures could adversely affect the livelihoods of lakhs of tea workers, the tea industry and the environment. They demanded that homestead land rights be granted to tea garden residents and normal operations restored in closed and abandoned tea gardens before any changes in land policy are implemented.

Former India captain Bhaichung Bhutia has welcomed the Durand Cup’s expanding footprint, describing it as one of football’s most prestigious tournaments while urging organisers to bring matches to Siliguri in future editions.

Speaking ahead of the 135th Durand Cup, Bhutia said the historic competition deserves the support of all major clubs and praised the initiative to take the tournament to multiple host cities.

Bhaichung Bhutia wants Durand Cup matches in Siliguri

The former India skipper, who hails from the region, said Siliguri shares a deep connection with football and deserves to host at least one group-stage fixture.

“It is a very good initiative because the Durand Cup is the second-oldest tournament in the world and such a prestigious tournament. I hope that with the support of the Bengal Government, all the big clubs would play. We’ve also grown up playing in this competition. I would like to request that one of the group matches of the Durand Cup be held here in Siliguri,” Bhutia said.

Durand Cup 2026 begins with Kolkata Derby

The 135th edition of the Durand Cup kicks off on July 25 with the much-anticipated Kolkata Derby between Mohun Bagan Super Giant and East Bengal FC.

The month-long tournament, running until August 23, features 24 teams divided into six groups across five host cities, Kolkata, Ranchi, Imphal, Shillong and Guwahati.

Kolkata, which has hosted the tournament since 2019, will stage the opening match, both Groups A and B, two quarterfinals, the first semifinal and the final, while the other cities continue to strengthen the competition’s growing national presence.

Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) founder Abhijeet Dipke on Friday, July 24, said that the ongoing students’ protest at Jantar Mantar over the NEET-UG paper leak and other issues will not end until Dharmendra Pradhan resigns as the Union Education Minister.

The CJP’s stand on the matter came as activist Sonam Wangchuk ended his 26-day hunger strike after receiving assurances from the Central government as well as MPs across political parties that the issue of accountability in the country’s examination system would be taken up in Parliament.

However, Leader of the Opposition in Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, on Friday asserted that no discussion would be held with the government until Pradhan resigns taking accountability for exam paper leaks, and Prime Minister Narendra Modi apologises for the alleged police brutality against the protesting students.

Ever since Wangchuk ended his hunger strike, the CJP and its founder have appeared to be desperate to continue the protest at Jantar Mantar in the national capital. Here’s taking a look at five statements that suggests so.

1. ‘No longer about Dipke or Wangchuk alone’

On Friday, Dipke told mediapersons that “nothing short of the minister’s resignation is acceptable” to the protesting students, adding that the agitation will “not be called off because this movement is no longer about Abhijeet Dipke or Sonam Wangchuk alone.”

“It has now become a movement of the country’s youth, which is why protests are being held across the nation. Nothing less than the minister’s resignation will be accepted,” he said.

VIDEO | CJP Founder Abhijeet Dipke says, “Nothing short of the minister’s resignation is acceptable. The protest will not be called off because this movement is no longer about Abhijeet Dipke or Sonam Wangchuk alone. It has now become a movement of the country’s youth, which is… pic.twitter.com/9HS4L4vPBl

— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) July 24, 2026

2. Sonam Wangchuk ‘held in isolation’

The CJP founder claimed that Sonam Wangchuk was “virtually being held in isolation.”

“While JP Nadda was able to meet him, no Opposition MP was allowed to do so. Even members of our team were not permitted to meet him. In a way, the government had kept him isolated. But I am very glad, happy and relieved that Sonam has ended his hunger strike. That is what we wanted, and we had also requested him to do so. His life is extremely important for the country, its students and the future of the education system,” PTI quoted him as saying.

3. ‘Not stepping back until Pradhan resigns’

CJP spokesperson Ashutosh Ranka said that the CJP protest at Jantar Mantar would continue despite Wangchuk ending his 26-day hunger strike.

“We want to make it very clear that the protest at Jantar Mantar will continue until Dharmendra Pradhan resigns. Dharmendra Pradhan’s resignation has been the demand of this movement from the very beginning, and until Pradhan resigns, we are not going to step back,” he said.

4. ‘Rewarding corruption’

In a post on X, Abhijeet Dipke attacked the government for “rewarding corruption instead of ensuring accountability” after the the Education Secretary was transferred and “replaced by an IAS officer from the Animal Husbandry Department who has severe multi-crore corruption charges against him.”

“The entire crisis around paper leaks and NEET was about systemic corruption. Replacing one bureaucrat with another facing serious corruption allegations is a direct INSULT to young people across India. Is this the ‘compromise’ the government expects us to accept? This is not accountability. We will not stop until Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan resigns,” Dipke wrote on the social media platform.

The government is rewarding corruption instead of ensuring accountability!

Last night, the Education Secretary was transferred. He was replaced by an IAS officer from the Animal Husbandry Department who has severe multi-crore corruption charges against him.

The entire crisis…

— Abhijeet Dipke (@abhijeet_dipke) July 24, 2026

5. Saurav Das targets Delhi Police

Earlier in the day, CJP spokesperson Saurav Das said they were launching a website where injured protesters and those who were assaulted during police action can upload pictures of the police personnel involved.

“We will file complaints against them and move the court if the Delhi Police does not register FIRs,” he added.

India’s men’s cricket team has secured a direct place in the knockout stage of the 2026 Asian Games after the tournament draw was announced on Thursday.

India, along with Bangladesh, Pakistan and Sri Lanka, received direct qualification to the knockout phase based on their rankings, while Afghanistan, Hong Kong, Japan, Malaysia, Nepal and Oman will compete in the preliminary round for the remaining four spots.

Women’s team to face Japan in quarterfinals

The draw also confirmed the fixtures for the women’s cricket tournament, with defending champions India set to face Japan in the quarterfinals.

The other quarterfinal matches are:

• Bangladesh vs China
• Sri Lanka vs MalaysiaPakistan vs Thailand

The women’s competition will be held from September 17 to 22, while the men’s tournament is scheduled from September 24 to October 1.

Preliminary groups confirmed for men’s event

The men’s preliminary stage will feature two groups:

Group A: Afghanistan, Japan, Nepal

Group B: Hong Kong, Malaysia, Oman

The top two teams from each group will qualify for the knockout stage, joining India, Bangladesh, Pakistan and Sri Lanka.

All matches will be played in Nagoya, Japan, in the T20 format.

India eyes title defence

India enter the Games as defending champions in both the men’s and women’s competitions.

The men’s team won gold at the 2023 Asian Games after the rain-hit final against Afghanistan was abandoned, with India declared champions as the higher-seeded side.

The women’s team also claimed gold after defeating Sri Lanka by 19 runs in the final, and will be aiming to defend its title in Nagoya.

As the West Bengal government ramps up its efforts to preserve the state’s religious heritage and support the annual chariot festival, the historic Guptipara Rath Yatra in Bengal’s Hooghly district stands out as one of the state’s most significant traditions.

The Guptipara Rath Yatra traces its origin to 1740 CE, when the Vaishnava saint Madhusudananda started the annual chariot festival centred on Sri Vrindabanchandra Jiu. Unlike the famous Rath Yatra of Puri, the festival in Guptipara is popularly known as the Rath of Vrindabanchandra Jiu, which reflects the distinctive religious identity of the region.

Over the centuries, the festival has evolved into one of Bengal’s oldest surviving expressions of intangible cultural heritage.

Equally distinctive is the celebrated ritual of Bhandar Loot, observed during the return journey of the deities. Local tradition mentions that Lord Jagannath became so delighted with the hospitality at the Gundicha Temple that he was reluctant to return.

This prompted the arrival of Sri Vrindabanchandra Jiu along with his attendants and ceremonially “looted” the divine offerings, giving rise to the unique ritual that continues to this day.

According to scholars, the ceremony stands out as a symbolic expression of communal participation and social solidarity.

As Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari has taken the initiative to uphold centuries-old temples and historic Rath Yatras across the state, he has also taken a keen interest in the Bhandar Loot religious ceremony held at Guptipara, a day before the Ulto Rath Yatra.

The Chief Minister is also expected to visit Guptipara on 23 July in the afternoon to participate in the religious ceremony.

Legend states that Lakshmi, the wife of Lord Jagannath, was displeased with His prolonged stay at Mashir Bari and wanted Him to return home. It is believed that when She went there to bring Him back, Jagannath was so engrossed in the lavish feast that he refused to leave.

On her return, Lakshmi came up with a plan. She decided to raid the kitchen of Jagannath’s Mashir Bari with the help of Vrindabanchandra and Krishnachandra. The next day, a group of men armed with sticks stormed the kitchen and looted its stores. Deprived of the grand feast He had been enjoying for a week, Jagannath had no choice but to return home the next day.

Preparations for the Bhandar Loot start with the cooking of bhog behind the temple. The offerings include khichuri, labra, along with an assortment of sweets and fruits. The bhog is then packed into earthen pots, and around 500 pots are placed inside the temple.

Meanwhile, preparations also begin at the Vrindabanchandra Temple Complex. The idols of Radha-Krishna are ceremonially taken out from the Vrindabanchandra and Krishnachandra temples and placed in beautifully decorated palanquins. The deities then proceed to Mashir Bari to symbolically loot the Bhandar.

When the doors of the temple are finally thrown open, men rush inside to collect the bhog stored in the earthen pots. This symbolic ritual is popularly known as Bhandar Loot.

It is believed that the more bhog a devotee is able to collect, the more he is blessed. When the offerings are brought out, they are shared with other devotees who do not take part in this ritual.

After this Bhandar Loot, Vrindabanchandra and Krishnachandra return to their temples. The next day, Lord Jagannath and his siblings make their journey back home in the Ulto Rath Yatra.

The Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) on Friday claimed that the Centre has sought time till Saturday afternoon to respond to its demand for Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan’s resignation following nearly two hours of talks with Union ministers JP Nadda and Jitendra Singh in New Delhi.

According to the party, the government also expressed in-principle approval for two other demands — compensation for the families of NEET aspirants who died by suicide and withdrawal of FIRs and other legal cases registered against protesting students.

Speaking to reporters after the meeting, CJP national spokesperson Ashutosh Ranka said the government had asked for more time before taking a call on the demand for Pradhan’s resignation.

“The government has asked for time till tomorrow afternoon on our demand for Dharmendra Pradhan’s resignation. We hope the government will remove him soon,” Ranka said.

CJP claims Centre agreed in principle to two demands

Ranka said the Centre had conveyed in-principle approval for two demands raised by the party.

These include compensation for the families of NEET aspirants who allegedly died by suicide and withdrawal of FIRs and other legal proceedings initiated against students participating in the protests.

“The government has expressed in-principle approval on the two demands of compensation for families of NEET aspirants who died by suicide and withdrawal of FIRs and legal cases on students,” he said.

The CJP, however, maintained that its principal demand remains the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.

Talks follow Wangchuk ending hunger strike

The meeting came a day after social activist Sonam Wangchuk ended his 26-day hunger strike after receiving a written assurance from the Union government on issues related to the NEET examination controversy and reforms to the country’s competitive examination system.

Wangchuk ended his fast at Medanta Hospital in the presence of Union ministers JP Nadda and Jitendra Singh.

The CJP had agreed to hold talks after the government reportedly accepted two preconditions — that no legal action would be taken against peaceful protesters and that compensation would be provided to families affected by the alleged examination irregularities.

Trinamool Congress MP Mahua Moitra on Friday took a swipe at the government over the manner in which Sonam Wangchuk ended his 26-day hunger strike following written assurances on the NEET controversy and wider education reforms.

Sharing a photograph from the hospital, Moitra questioned the “optics” of a senior government representative personally offering a cup to Wangchuk as he broke his fast.

“Todna hi thaa toh kisi aur ke haath se tod leteh sir … optics naam ki bhi kuch hoti hai… :-)” she wrote on X.

Todna hi thaa toh kisi aur ke haath se tod leteh sir … optics naam ki bhi kuch hoti hai… 🙂 pic.twitter.com/v5dvZS9RaS

— Mahua Moitra (@MahuaMoitra) July 24, 2026

Loosely translated, Moitra said that even if the fast had to be broken, it could have been done by someone else, adding that political optics also mattered.

The photograph accompanying her post shows the hospitalised activist being offered a cup during the visit by government representatives. Union Health Minister JP Nadda and Union Minister Jitendra Singh had met Wangchuk at Medanta Hospital before he called off his protest.

In a separate post on X, Moitra appealed directly to Wangchuk, urging him not to let the movement lose momentum after ending his fast.

“Dear @Wangchuk66 we respect you. But suggestion for protestors to go around the country & present PM ji with a report will not fly. Please do not fall into govt’s trap & dilute the moral high ground you achieved in 26 days. Movement is far beyond that,” she posted.

Dear @Wangchuk66 we respect you. But suggestion for protestors to go around the country & present PM ji with a report will not fly. Please do not fall into govt’s trap & dilute the moral high ground you achieved in 26 days. Movement is far beyond that.

— Mahua Moitra (@MahuaMoitra) July 24, 2026

Wangchuk ended fast after written assurances

Wangchuk’s wife, Gitanjali Angmo, said the activist ended his indefinite hunger strike only after receiving written confirmation from the government on key demands.

According to Angmo, the assurances included no FIRs against peaceful student protesters, compensation for families affected by the NEET controversy and a parliamentary discussion on systemic education reforms.

“At midnight, we got written confirmation from govt of acceptance of our demand for no FIR against student protestors, compensation for NEET victims and discussion on educational reforms in Parliament,” she told reporters.

She said Nadda and Jitendra Singh had visited Wangchuk, while 65 Opposition MPs had also given written assurances that the issue would be raised in Parliament.

Angmo described the conclusion of the fast as a success for the movement, saying the examination controversy had exposed deeper problems in the education system.

“NEET paper leak was the symptom, but the causes are present in the system,” she said.

Wangchuk is expected to gradually move to a semi-solid diet following the prolonged fast.

CJP says protest will continue

The Cockroach Janta Party, however, has said its agitation will continue despite Wangchuk ending his hunger strike.

CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke said the party would not withdraw the protest until Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan resigned.

“Our protest will continue until Dharmendra Pradhan resigns. We are very happy and relieved that Sonam sir has ended his hunger strike, as it had been over 26 days. His life is extremely precious to this country,” Dipke said.

CJP representatives Ashutosh Ranka and Deepak Balyan also rejected the government’s announcements on fast-track courts as insufficient, maintaining that political accountability remained the central demand of the agitation.

West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari on Friday announced that birth centenary of iconic Bengali actor Uttam Kumar, popularly known as Mahanayak, will be celebrated from September 3 to September 6 this year.

“This year, on September 3, we will commemorate his (Uttam Kumar’s) birth centenary. We have decided to observe the birth centenary of the Mahanayak from September 3 to September 6. Preparations will begin shortly, and we will undertake several initiatives during this period,” Adhikari said.

Adhikari also mentioned that the state government will build a new film centre in Kolkata and name it after iconic Bengali actor Uttam Kumar.

The government will also renovate and modernise Uttam Mancha in Kalighat, Adhikari said at a programme held at Keoratala Crematorium to mark the 47th death anniversary of the legendary actor who ruled the screens and hearts of Bengalis for generations.

According to the Chief Minister, the state government has already initiated the process of setting up a film centre in Kolkata named after Uttam Kumar and renovating and modernising Uttam Mancha, which is run by the Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC).

“We have also taken responsibility for renovating and modernising Uttam Mancha,” he said, adding that the necessary financial provisions had been made in the state budget for the projects.

The Chief Minister further said a preparatory meeting would be held at Nandan or Rabindra Sadan, which he would personally chair, following which a committee would be formed to oversee the centenary celebrations.

“We will proceed based on the committee’s recommendations. We will, of course, take the permission of his family before undertaking any initiative,” Adhikari said.

Adhikari said several cultural activists had already met him at Nabanna, while four MLAs associated with the cultural world had also submitted suggestions regarding the centenary celebrations.

“Beyond them, there are many others who love the Mahanayak, who want to restore the lost glory of Bengal’s film industry and bring back our former prestige in an even better and more beautiful manner, completely free from politics,” he said.

Chief Minister Adhikari also hit out at the previous Trinamool Congress government in the state without naming the party.

“We have fallen behind considerably. We have made many mistakes. We must move beyond this point and rebuild things beautifully,” Adhikari said.

He also unveiled a fibreglass bust of Uttam Kumar at Keoratala Crematorium, where the legendary actor’s last rites were performed, to mark his 47th death anniversary.

The Chief Minister said the bust had been installed with the permission of Uttam Kumar’s family and paid tribute to the actor for his immense contribution to Bengali cinema and culture.

Uttam Kumar, widely regarded as the Mahanayak of Bengali cinema, died on July 24, 1980, at the age of 53. His screen partnership with Suchitra Sen remains one of the most celebrated chapters in Indian cinema.

The Chief Minister said the government would organise the centenary celebrations with the participation of people from the film and cultural fraternity, while seeking their suggestions through the proposed preparatory committee.

Adhikari, who also holds charge of the Information and Cultural Affairs Department, said the government was committed to involving the wider cultural community in the celebrations.

“Chief Ministers, ministers, MLAs and officials cannot do everything on their own. There are actors and many people associated with our cultural movement who must be involved,” he said.

“This is a major platform in Bengal. We want to move forward after taking everyone’s suggestions and opinions,” Adhikari added.

Chief Justice of India (CJI) Justice Surya Kant on Friday denied reports claiming that he had refused to hear petition related to police action against student protesters. Speaking in open court, the CJI said the reports were “completely false” because no writ petition had been filed before the Supreme Court on the issue.

He clarified that the Court had not received any formal petition. According to him, what reached the Supreme Court was only a letter representation sent by a lawyer, which cannot be treated as a writ petition under the law.

No formal petition before Supreme Court

Justice Surya Kant explained that until 10 AM on Friday, not even a single page of a writ petition had been officially filed before the Court. He stressed that without a proper filing, there was no legal case that could be listed for hearing.

The CJI questioned how a simple representation could be considered a writ petition and said the media should not have reported that the Court had refused to list a case that did not legally exist.

CJI criticises irresponsible reporting

Expressing concern over the reports, the Chief Justice described the coverage as “irresponsible and reckless.” He said incorrect reporting had created the false impression that the Supreme Court had refused to hear a petition.

Addressing the issue in court, Justice Surya Kant said that over the past two days, false claims had circulated stating that a matter had been filed and that the Chief Justice had declined to list it.

He remarked that the media had reported the issue without verifying whether any petition had actually been submitted.

Remarks made during another hearing

The clarification came while Senior Advocate Shoeb Alam was mentioning a different matter before the Supreme Court for listing. During the proceedings, the CJI took the opportunity to respond to the reports and explain the actual position regarding the student protest issue.

He repeated that only a representation had been sent by a lawyer and that such a communication could not automatically become a writ petition before the Court.

Background: Lawyer’s letter on student protest police action

The issue traces back to July 22, when Advocate Narendra Mishra orally mentioned a letter petition addressed to the Chief Justice. The letter concerned police action taken during student protests.

At that time, the CJI declined to entertain the matter and told the lawyer, “Don’t waste our time, don’t waste your time.”

When the advocate said that he had videos showing the police action against the protesters, Justice Surya Kant responded that the Court was “not interested in videos” and added, “We don’t have time to watch.”

A political controversy erupted after climate activist Sonam Wangchuk ended his indefinite hunger strike, with Congress MP Imran Masood alleging that the activist had struck a deal with the government and the BJP accusing the Opposition of insulting him for political reasons.

Reacting to Wangchuk’s decision to call off the fast, Masood said, “He is Anna part two. For 12 years, Anna has remained silent, and now Sonam Wangchuk will remain silent. You were striking a deal with the government yesterday; at the time, was any student present there? What else is there except your personal deal with the government?”

Responding to Masood’s remarks, Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) founding president Abhijeet Dipke defended the protest and said it was driven by students rather than political parties.

“This protest belongs to the youth of the nation, not the Opposition parties. This movement will not weaken,” Dipke said.

The BJP hit back at the Congress, accusing it of trying to undermine Wangchuk after he ended his fast following talks with the government.

BJP national spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla alleged that Congress leader Rahul Gandhi had neither visited Wangchuk during his protest nor supported his demands, and was now attempting to claim political credit.

“How low can Congress stoop in the fight for credit? The ‘Yuvraj’ of Congress stayed abroad for 21 days; he never visited Sonam Wangchuk, nor did he go to the Jantar Mantar protest. Today, when the government spoke with the protesters and Sonam Wangchuk, and got him to break his fast, the entire country is happy about it,” Poonawalla said in a video message.

Shocking 😳
Congress insults Sonam Wangchuk

Imran Masood crosses the line and insults him

Congress wants credit not student ka hit
They are running away from Parliament pic.twitter.com/LMbQOYgRAX

— Shehzad Jai Hind (Chowkidar as per INC ecosystem) (@Shehzad_Ind) July 24, 2026

He further claimed that Wangchuk had sought a discussion on his demands in Parliament and alleged that Rahul Gandhi was avoiding such a discussion.

Instead, Poonawalla accused the Congress of attacking Wangchuk through its leaders.

“Rahul Gandhi is running away from that discussion. Instead, he has directed his leader Imran Masood to abuse and insult Sonam Wangchuk. Imran Masood has issued statements insulting Sonam Wangchuk, calling him a ‘deal-maker’. By comparing him to Anna Hazare, he used derogatory words for both Anna Hazare and Sonam Wangchuk,” he said.

Poonawalla also questioned whether the CJP and its founder would condemn Masood’s remarks.

He further alleged that the Congress and other Opposition parties were motivated by political credit rather than concern for students.

“The Congress party, keeping only its ego at the forefront, along with the Aam Aadmi Party, Samajwadi Party, and CJP, is abusing Sonam Wangchuk just so he doesn’t get the credit. Even Sonam Wangchuk’s wife said that Congress is insincere. This is the real face of Congress; they are not with the students, they are only after the credit,” he said.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday extended his best wishes to the Indian contingent as the Commonwealth Games 2026 got underway in Glasgow, expressing confidence that the country’s athletes would compete with passion, determination and excellence.

India has sent a contingent of more than 120 athletes to compete across eight able-bodied sports and five para sports, aiming to build on its rich legacy at the Commonwealth Games.

PM Modi’s message for Team India

In a post on X, the Prime Minister praised the dedication of India’s athletes and said they continue to inspire millions across the country.

“As the Commonwealth #Glasgow2026 Games begin, my best wishes to the Indian contingent. I am confident that our athletes will participate in the Games with passion, determination and a spirit of excellence. The skills and dedication of our athletes always inspire countless Indians.”

As the Commonwealth #Glasgow2026 Games begin, my best wishes to the Indian contingent.

I am confident that our athletes will participate in the Games with passion, determination and a spirit of excellence.

The skills and dedication of our athletes always inspire countless… pic.twitter.com/caenX35LdG

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) July 24, 2026

Mirabai leads India at the opening ceremony

Olympic silver medallist Mirabai Chanu led the Indian contingent as the flag-bearer during the opening ceremony at Glasgow’s OVO Hydro, marking the official start of India’s campaign.

India also made a promising start on the field, with Rupa Rani Tirkey and Pinki defeating Malta in the women’s pairs after a tense tie-break.

In the men’s singles, Putul Sonowal produced one of the standout results of the opening day by upsetting reigning world champion Ryan Bester in their Section D clash.

Sonowal will next face Cecil Alexander of the Falkland Islands, while Pinki and Rupa are set to take on South Africa in their next group-stage fixture.

With the opening ceremony complete and India’s campaign already underway, attention now turns to the coming days as the country’s athletes begin their quest for medals at Glasgow 2026.

After the Delhi University (DU), Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) has now issued an advisory urging students and other stakeholders to avoid visiting Jantar Mantar, where the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) is holding a protest in connection with the NEET-UG paper leak and other issues.

In its advisory, the JNU asked members of its academic community to act responsibly and prioritise their personal safety.

“All stakeholders of JNU’s epistemic community are advised to act responsibly and prioritise their personal safety. In accordance with the Hon’ble Supreme Court of India’s directions on public demonstrations, you are requested to refrain from participating in or visiting gatherings at or around Jantar Mantar, New Delhi,” read the advisory.

The university has even cautioned students regarding their conduct on social media and warned that violations could attract legal and disciplinary action.

“Please exercise responsibility on social media. Violations may invite legal consequences under applicable laws as well as disciplinary action under the University’s code of conduct,” the statement added.

Advisory
All stakeholders of JNU’s epistemic community are advised to act responsibly and prioritize their personal safety. In accordance with the Hon’ble Supreme Court of India’s directions on public demonstrations, you are requested to refrain from participating in or visiting…

— Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) (@JNU_official_50) July 24, 2026

Further, it told students and staff to uphold the principles of responsible citizenship and stated, “You are also encouraged to uphold the values of academic responsibility and responsible citizenship.”

This comes a day after the Delhi University issued a similar appeal to its students and faculty members, asking them to remain away from demonstrations at Jantar Mantar.

“Dear students and faculty, your safety matters to us,” the advisory said. It added that gatherings at Jantar Mantar are subject to regulations and restrictions laid down under directions of the Supreme Court of India.

Notably, students protest continues to take place at Jantar Mantar over the demand for the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, despite activist Sonam Wangchuk ending his 26-day fast.

The Indian Army has joined large-scale flood rescue operations in Gujarat as relentless rainfall continued to batter the state’s southern districts, forcing thousands of people to evacuate and disrupting road and rail connectivity.

Army flood relief columns from the Golden Katar Division have been deployed in Valsad, Navsari, Ahmedabad city and Ahmedabad rural areas to assist civil authorities. Troops are rescuing stranded residents, delivering essential supplies and supporting relief efforts, including at Dhamdaccha village in Navsari district.

The deployment comes as the state government ramps up rescue and rehabilitation measures across the worst-hit districts of Valsad, Navsari, Surat, Tapi and Dang.

Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel reviewed the flood situation at the State Emergency Operation Centre in Gandhinagar and directed officials to deploy additional National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) teams wherever required.

Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi reviewed the situation in Valsad after record rainfall inundated large parts of the district. Officials told him that Umargam received 1,064 mm of rainfall in a single day, while Kaprada recorded 2,566 mm during the current monsoon season.

Heavy rain, combined with water released from the Madhuban Dam, caused rivers to overflow, flooding low-lying areas across the district.

The district administration said 12,376 people were shifted to safer locations in a single day. Sanghavi praised the rescue effort, saying the evacuation was completed without any major accident or reported loss of life.

He directed officials to begin sanitation drives, organise health camps and ensure the immediate distribution of cash assistance and ration kits once floodwaters recede. He also asked authorities to deploy additional sanitation workers, remove accumulated mud and debris, and dispose of damaged household goods to reduce the risk of disease outbreaks.

The Deputy Chief Minister also advised officials to coordinate with insurance companies to speed up claim settlements for traders and shopkeepers affected by the floods.

During his visit, Sanghavi met passengers stranded at Valsad railway station after heavy rain disrupted train services. Railway officials informed him that the Mumbai-bound railway line had been reopened.

According to the NDRF, its 6th Battalion rescued 67 people, including 25 women and 22 children, from floodwaters in Sarikhurad village of Navsari district after receiving a request from the local administration. Rescue operations were continuing.

In Valsad district, authorities have deployed around 70 Army personnel with five boats, five NDRF teams, five SDRF teams and 25 fire brigade personnel. More than 500 residents from Umargam, Vapi, Dharampur and Pardi talukas have been shifted to safer locations.

Flood conditions have also worsened in Surat district after the Kim River overflowed following heavy inflows from upstream areas. Water submerged the Gaikwadi Road connecting Kosamba and Kim in Mangrol taluka, forcing authorities to close the route to traffic. Floodwaters also entered nearby residential colonies, while officials advised residents to stay away from rivers and waterlogged areas.

In Surat city, emergency teams rescued more than 50 people from Geeta Nagar in Limbayat, the Shitala Mata Mandir area in Varachha and Krishna Nagar in Udhna. Authorities said 2,244 residents from Surat city and another 2,603 people from rural parts of the district have been moved to relief centres and other safe locations.

In Navsari, district officials said heavy rainfall caused the Juj and Keliya dams to overflow, leading to the closure of around 250 roads. Nearly 3,000 people have been relocated to relief shelters.

In Tapi district, SDRF personnel rescued 11 villagers stranded after floodwaters inundated Dhodiyawad Faliya in Dolvan taluka.

In Dang district, rainfall eased on Thursday night, but restoration work continued. The district recorded an average of 263.33 mm of rainfall in the 24 hours ending July 23. While 23 roads reopened after water levels receded, 18 roads, most of them in Waghai taluka, remained closed.

Authorities have urged residents not to cross flooded rivers, canals or causeways and to follow advisories issued by the India Meteorological Department and local administrations.

India’s top seed Anahat Singh continued her impressive run at the 2026 World Junior Squash Championships, defeating Egypt’s Habiba Rizk to book her place in the women’s singles semifinals in Ontario on Thursday.

The women’s world No. 20 produced another composed display to beat the fifth/eighth seed 11-7, 11-5, 6-11, 11-9 in the quarterfinals.

Anahat Singh creates history with back-to-back World Junior semifinals

With the victory, Anahat became the first Indian to reach back-to-back semifinals at the World Junior Squash Championships, underlining her status as one of the tournament favourites.

The top seed is now just one win away from becoming the first Indian to reach the final of the prestigious junior event and remains firmly in contention to script history by claiming India’s maiden World Junior title.

Anahat will next face Egypt’s Barb Sameh, who advanced to the last four after a straight-games win over Hong Kong, China’s Helen Tang.

The other women’s semifinal will feature another all-Egyptian clash between second seed Ruqayya Salem and Malika Elkaraksy. Salem survived a five-game battle against Malaysia’s Whitney Wilson, while Elkaraksy eased past Belgium’s Savannah Moxham in straight games.

Egypt dominate men’s semifinals

The men’s draw will feature an all-Egyptian semifinal lineup after the country’s top contenders progressed from the quarterfinals.

Top seed Mohamad Zakaria advanced comfortably with a straight-games win over USA’s Yaseen Shalaby, while Seifeldin Refaay defeated Belgium’s Maddox Moxham in three games to set up a last-four clash with Zakaria.

Second seed Adam Hawal overcame Saudi Arabia’s Mohammed Alnasfan in four games, while Marwan Assal booked the final semifinal spot after edging France’s Amir Khaled-Jousselin in a thrilling five-game contest.

With momentum firmly on her side, Anahat will now look to take another step towards history when she faces Barb Sameh for a place in the World Junior Squash Championships 2026 final.

Quarter-final Women’s Results

[1] Anahat Singh (IND) bt [5/8] Habiba Rizk (EGY) 3-1: 11-7, 11-5, 6-11, 11-9

[3/4] Barb Sameh (EGY) bt [5/8] Helen Tang (HKG) 3-0: 11-1, 11-9, 11-7

[2] Ruqayya Salem (EGY) bt [9/12] Whitney Wilson (MAS) 3-2: 4-11, 11-5, 8-11, 11-9, 11-7

[3/4] Malika Elkaraksy (EGY) bt [5/8] Savannah Moxham (BEL) 3-0: 11-8, 11-8, 11-5

World Squash Junior Individual Championships – Quarter-final Men’s Results

[1] Mohamad Zakaria (EGY) bt [9/12] Yaseen Shalaby (USA) 3-0:11-0, 11-7, 11-4.

[3/4] Seifeldin Refaay (EGY) bt [9/12] Maddox Moxham (BEL) 3-0: 11-6, 11-7, 11-9

[2] Adam Hawal (EGY) bt [9/12] Mohammed Alnasfan (KSA) 3-1: 11-2, 10-12, 11-3, 11-3

[3/4] Marwan Assal (EGY) bt [5/8] Amir Khaled-Jousselin (FRA) 3-2: 11-7, 7-11, 7-11, 11-6, 11-7

NTR Jr is known for his films and his dancing. But there are parts of his life that don’t get much attention. Here are seven facts about him that go beyond his movie roles.

He started as a child Actor

NTR Jr appeared in his first film as a child. The movie was Brahmarshi Viswamitra. It was directed by his grandfather, Nandamuri Taraka Rama Rao. That was his first time in front of a camera, long before his acting career took shape.

He trained in Kuchipudi

NTR studied Kuchipudi, a classical Indian dance form. This training shows up in his film dance sequences. The technique comes from years of formal practice, not just natural rhythm.

He also sings

NTR has done playback singing for some of his films. He has recorded songs alongside his acting work. He also speaks multiple languages, which has helped him work across different film industries in India.

He trains hard for roles

NTR changes his body for different characters. This involves months of workouts and diet changes before filming starts. He has done this repeatedly throughout his career for different roles.

He prioritises family time

NTR has spoken about making time for his family despite a busy filming schedule. He travels often for work but tries to schedule time at home between projects.

Colleagues describe him as easy to work with

People who have worked with NTR, including directors and crew members, have described him as professional and respectful on set.

His reach has grown internationally

The film RRR introduced NTR to audiences outside India. He has also signed on for international projects since then. He continues to work primarily in Telugu cinema alongside these newer projects.

What’s next

NTR has two major upcoming films. One is Dragon, directed by Prashanth Neel. The other is an untitled project with director Trivikram, referred to online as NTRxTrivikram. Both are among the most anticipated Telugu films currently in production.