The organisers of the Lanka Premier League (LPL) have terminated the franchise agreement with the owners of Jaffna Kings, with Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) and tournament rights holder IPG taking full control of the team to ensure the tournament continues without disruption.

The move comes just days after Jaffna Kings co-owner and former India Under-19 batter Manjot Kalra was arrested by Sri Lanka Police’s Special Investigations Unit (SIU) for the Prevention of Offences Relating to Sports on suspicion of match-fixing on the opening day of the 2026 LPL.

Kalra had joined entrepreneur Mayank Goel as co-owner of the franchise. However, IPG clarified that the franchise agreement was terminated because the owners failed to meet their financial obligations.

Following the termination, all rights to the Jaffna Kings franchise have reverted to IPG, which is now running the team jointly with Sri Lanka Cricket.

The organisers confirmed that there will be no impact on the ongoing tournament. Jaffna Kings will continue to play under the same name, with no changes to the squad, fixtures or competition format.

“The termination follows the franchisee’s inability to fulfil its financial obligations under the terms of the franchise agreement. As a result, all rights relating to the Jaffna Kings franchise have reverted to IPG, which, together with Sri Lanka Cricket, has assumed full operational control of the team.

“To ensure the uninterrupted operation of the franchise, IPG and Sri Lanka Cricket have taken complete responsibility for all player, coaching staff, and support staff contracts. The organisers also confirm that all logistical arrangements for the team have been secured, ensuring the squad is intact for the tournament,” IPG said in an official statement.

IPG also revealed that around 90 per cent of payments due to players and support staff have already been made, with the remaining payments to be cleared as per the existing contracts.

“While this was a difficult decision, our priority has always been to protect the integrity of the Lanka Premier League and ensure complete stability for our players, coaches, partners, and fans. Together with Sri Lanka Cricket, we have acted swiftly to ensure the Jaffna Kings continue to participate in the tournament without disruption,” the statement added.

The Congress on Thursday stepped up its attack on the Narendra Modi government over the security measures imposed in the national capital amid the ongoing student protests over the alleged examination paper leaks, with Congress general secretary (Organisation) K C Venugopal accusing the Centre of converting Delhi into a “war zone” and questioning the closure of commercial establishments around the protest site.

In a statement issued on Thursday, Venugopal alleged that the government’s response to the student agitation was becoming increasingly restrictive and disproportionate.
“Yesterday, they cut-off internet. Today, they are shutting all shops around the protest. Is this how the national capital of the ‘mother of democracy’ reacts to a protest?” he said.
Targeting Prime Minister Narendra Modi directly, Venugopal claimed that unprecedented security measures had been imposed to contain peaceful demonstrations by students.
“Mr. Modi is turning Delhi into a war zone. Numerous CRPF battalions are deployed, Delhi Police still threatening students, repeated tear gas shelling and violence, and the Police is given powers of preventive detention under NSA (as if the peaceful protesters are terrorists?!),” he said.

His remarks came after the New Delhi Traders Association (NDTA) issued an advisory circular asking all shop owners, office establishments and restaurants in Connaught Place to shut their establishments by 6.30 p.m. on July 23. The advisory, signed by NDTA President Atul Bhargava, stated that the direction had been issued following advice from the Chairman and Vice Chairman of the New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC).

The circular cited a “critical situation around CP” as the reason for the precautionary measure and urged strict compliance “to avoid any unpleasant situation and save yourself from any loss of property and injury.”

The closure advisory came amid heightened security arrangements in central Delhi, where student organisations and Opposition parties have been protesting against the alleged paper leaks in competitive examinations and demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. Security personnel have been deployed in large numbers around key government buildings and protest locations, while restrictions have been imposed in several parts of the city to prevent large gatherings.

The Congress has accused the Centre of suppressing democratic dissent by resorting to internet restrictions, preventive detentions, police action and tight security measures instead of addressing the concerns of students. Party leaders have repeatedly alleged that peaceful protesters have been subjected to lathi-charge, tear gas shelling and intimidation, and have demanded accountability for the alleged examination irregularities.
The government, however, has defended the security arrangements as necessary to maintain law and order and public safety in view of the protests. It has also maintained that investigations into the alleged examination paper leaks are underway and that appropriate action is being taken against those responsible.

The controversy over the handling of the student protests has become one of the principal flashpoints of the ongoing Monsoon Session of Parliament, with the Congress and its INDIA bloc allies continuing to press for a discussion on the issue and insisting on the resignation of Dharmendra Pradhan as a precondition for any meaningful debate. The latest restrictions in central Delhi and the advisory to commercial establishments have further fuelled the political confrontation between the government and the Opposition over the Centre’s handling of the crisis.

India and the UAE agreed on further steps to enhance cooperation across the consular, visa and legal domains.

The decision was taken during the 7th Meeting of the India-UAE Joint Committee on Consular Affairs (JCCA) meeting which was held in New Delhi on Wednesday.

The meeting was co-chaired by Sripriya Ranganathan, Secretary (CPV & OIA) and Omar Obaid Mohammed AlHesan AlShamsi, Under Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the UAE.

During the JCCA meeting, the two delegations reviewed progress since the previous meeting of the JCCA held in Abu Dhabi in November 2025 and welcomed regular exchanges on important consular issues at all levels.

“Emphasising the centrality of the community’s welfare and well-being, both sides agreed on further steps to enhance cooperation across the consular, visa and legal domains. The two sides agreed to follow up on the agreed decisions of the meeting, continue with the monthly review mechanisms and convene technical meetings as agreed,” the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said in a statement on Thursday.

India and the UAE enjoy warm and cordial relations that cover all facets of bilateral cooperation, including in the economic, political, defence, technology, cultural, and energy domains,and are anchored in the strong people-to-people ties underpinned by the 4.5 million strong Indian community in the UAE.

“Under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed, India-UAE relations have continued to scale new heights,” the statement said.

The JCCA meeting was preceded by technical-level discussions between the two sides on consular issues, labour and mobility related issues and extradition and mutual legal assistance.

A separate meeting took place between the two sides to work towards integrating India’s Digilocker with the UAE platforms for seamless authentication of Indian academic degrees/documents, which will benefit Indian professionals working in the UAE and facilitate greater economic and educational opportunities.

The Indian side appreciated the support extended by the UAE leadership and authorities for the welfare of the Indian community residing in the UAE. Both sides reaffirmed their commitment in ensuring the safety, dignity and well-being of their citizens living in each other’s countries.

It was decided to hold the next meeting of JCCA in Abu Dhabi on mutually convenient dates, the statement added.

Madan Mitra’s elder son Swarup Mitra appeared before the Enforcement Directorate at its CGO Complex office in Kolkata on Thursday where he was interrogated by the central investigating agency on the alleged municipal recruitment scam.

This comes after the central agency had earlier questioned the Kamarhati MLA’s younger son Subharup Mitra for four hours on the same case on Wednesday.

Swarup Mitra arrived at the central agency’s office shortly after 11 am on Thursday along some documents related to the case.

When asked by reporters why he had been summoned to the ED office, Swarup said, “They wanted to know the details of my account. I have brought those details.”

Swarup claimed that there had been no unaccounted transactions involving his bank accounts.

“I have brought all the bank details. I have brought the complete income tax return records dating back to the 2013-14 financial year,” he said. Swarup also assured his cooperation with the investigators.

The ED had summoned Mitra’s two sons, Shubharup and Swarup, as well as his wife, Archana Mitra, in connection with the investigation into the municipal recruitment scam. Madan’s wife, Archana, will be interrogated for Friday.

ED sources claimed that upon entering the office, Swarup was questioned if anyone had given him any money or if any funds had been deposited into his account. Swarup reportedly stated that no such incident had occurred.

The search and recovery operations at the under-construction NHPC Teesta Stage-VI hydroelectric project in Namchi district concluded today, ably assisted by a specialised 12-member mines rescue team from the Asansol-based Eastern Coalfields Limited (ECL).

The ECL possesses expertise in handling complex subterranean emergencies, including underground fires, inundation, subsidence, and toxic gas rescue operations. It operates in Raniganj coalfields, country’s oldest coal-bearing region which is more than 252 years old.

According to ECL Chairman-cum-Managing Director Satish Chandra Jha, the specialised team was swiftly deployed via the Panagarh Air Base and quickly accelerated the intensive search and debris clearance process.

Officials noted that almost 50 per cent of the victims hail from West Bengal. As the massive multi-agency operations were launched, anxious family members of the missing workers clung to hope, yearning for a miraculous survival story reminiscent of the historic 1989 Mahabir Colliery disaster in Raniganj.

“A specialised mines rescue team from West Bengal was spearheading operations at the collapsed NHPC Teesta-VI hydroelectric project in Sikkim. The expert team worked tirelessly to clear toxic gas and debris following a fatal methane explosion that claimed the lives of over twenty workers, including several from West Bengal,” CMD Jha added.

This marks the first time an expert mines rescue unit from West Bengal has been deployed to a disaster site in a neighbouring state.

In a swift response to the Sumerdung tunnel collapse at the NHPC Teesta Stage-VI Hydroelectric Project, the ECL deployed a 12-member mines rescue team to assist in the critical search and rescue operations. It is the second rescue team sent from West Bengal. The elite team was led by Abhijit Kundu, Superintendent of Rescue at the ECL Mines Rescue Station in Sitarampur. The deployment follows an urgent request for assistance from NHPC authorities and the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF).

After days of incessant rainfall that triggered landslides across several parts of Sikkim, district administrations have begun on-ground inspections and restoration planning in the affected areas.

In Sikkim’s Pakyong district, District Collector Pari Bishnoi on Thursday inspected landslide-hit locations and drainage-related concerns near Bhanu Turning. She reviewed the condition of the damaged slope, retaining structures and surrounding areas, and sought details on the cause of the slope failure, the extent of damage, water supply disruptions, existing drainage arrangements and emergency mitigation measures.

The District Collector directed the Airport Authority of India (AAI) not to dump debris on private land and instructed it to prepare a comprehensive drainage plan. She also asked AAI to conduct a detailed study of the landslide site, undertake slope protection works and construct adequate culverts and drainage channels to ensure proper diversion of rainwater. Stressing that the affected stretch lies along a major road, she said drainage improvement should be taken up on priority to prevent further damage to public and private property.

The inspection team also visited the airport runway above the landslide site to review immediate mitigation measures. Bishnoi instructed AAI to stabilise the loose soil without delay and adopt a solution-oriented approach for the timely implementation of restoration works.

Meanwhile, following the collapse of a bridge at Barapathing under the Gnathang-Machong constituency, a joint inspection was carried out to assess the damage and initiate restoration measures. Officials said essential supplies would be transported through a trolley system to ensure uninterrupted assistance to residents of the cut-off areas. The construction agency was also directed to restore connectivity by reopening the Barapathing-Rongli road at the earliest.

Officials from the Mines and Geology Department conducted a technical assessment of the site, and a slope stability report is being prepared to guide restoration and safety measures.

Separately, Sub-Divisional Magistrate of Chungthang Arun Chettri, accompanied by SDPO Chandan Chhetri, inspected the ongoing road restoration works at Tarum Chu to review progress and assess measures being taken to restore safe connectivity.

Olympic champion Abhinav Bindra, former India cricketers Shikhar Dhawan and Yuvraj Singh have shared messages on social media amid the ongoing protests over the alleged NEET paper leak, calling for education reform, patience, dialogue and trust in institutions.

Their reactions came hours after Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced that fast-track courts would be set up to ensure swift punishment for those involved in paper leaks, describing the future of India’s youth as a top priority.

Bindra calls for stronger education system

Bindra stressed that education should rise above political divisions and said India must continue strengthening a system built on trust, merit and opportunity.

“I have never considered myself a political person. But I do believe that some issues belong to all of us, regardless of where we stand. Education is one of them,” Bindra wrote on X.

I have never considered myself a political person. But I do believe that some issues belong to all of us, regardless of where we stand. Education is one of them.

The measure of a nation is found not only in its economy or its achievements, but in the opportunities it creates for…

— Abhinav A. Bindra OLY (@Abhinav_Bindra) July 23, 2026

He added that an education system that inspires confidence, rewards merit and nurtures curiosity is among a nation’s greatest strengths and expressed hope that people across political lines would work together to strengthen it.

Dhawan urges patience and faith

Former India opener Shikhar Dhawan acknowledged the aspirations of students while urging patience and faith in the country’s institutions and government.

“Our youth are the future of our country. It is important to understand their dreams, but at the same time, it is equally important to have patience during difficult times and maintain faith in the country’s institutions and government,” Dhawan wrote on Instagram.

Humare youth humare desh ka future hain. Unke sapnon ko samajhna zaroori hai par saath hi, mushkil waqt mein patience rakhna aur desh ki institutions aur sarkar par bharosa banaye rakhna bhi utna hi zaroori hai.

Mera maanna hai ki har challenge ka solution patience se nikalta…

— Shikhar Dhawan (@SDhawan25) July 23, 2026

He said every challenge could be overcome with patience and expressed confidence that India would continue to move forward.

Yuvraj backs dialogue for an amicable solution

Yuvraj Singh also appealed for peace and constructive dialogue, saying children and students deserve a safe environment to learn and pursue their dreams.

“Let’s come together to build communities of care, opportunity and hope. Through dialogue we can find an amicable solution for the sake of India’s future,” he wrote on Instagram.

PM Modi announces fast-track courts

Earlier in the day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced that fast-track courts would be established to ensure swift and stringent punishment for those involved in paper leaks.

“Nothing is more important than the welfare and future of our youth… Those who try to harm the future of our youth will not be spared,” the Prime Minister said in a post on X.

Meanwhile, protests continued at Jantar Mantar, Tolstoy Marg and Janpath in New Delhi, with demonstrators demanding accountability over the alleged paper leak and broader reforms in the education system.

As NEET paper leak protests continue at New Delhi’s Jantar Mantar, Karnataka Public Service Commission (KPSC) has landed in fresh controversy, only days after the suspension of its former Chairman Shivashankarappa Sahukar, with more than 50 candidates alleging large-scale irregularities in the recruitment of 400 Veterinary Officers.

They have claimed that government jobs were being “sold” for as much as ₹80 lakh per seat.

The BJP was quick to jump in, pointing towards congress leader Rahul Gandhi.

Rahul Gandhi has nowhere to hide.

After the Pharmacy recruitment scam in AAP-ruled Punjab, fresh allegations of recruitment irregularities have now rocked Congress-ruled Karnataka.

Candidates have alleged large-scale malpractice in the recruitment of 400 Veterinary Officers by… pic.twitter.com/IpjTUb5gko

— Amit Malviya (@amitmalviya) July 23, 2026

The affected candidates Thursday approached the Vidhana Soudha Police Station, demanding an FIR into the matter and a thorough investigation. They urged the authorities to cancel the entire selection and order a fresh recruitment if the allegations are substantiated.

The latest allegations come at a particularly sensitive time for the KPSC, which is already under scrutiny following the suspension of its former Chairman over separate allegations of misuse of office. The complainants have urged investigators to examine whether the present recruitment exercise was similarly compromised and to identify those responsible if any wrongdoing is established.

The recruitment examination for 400 Veterinary Officer posts was held on January 8, while the results were declared on July 17. Soon after the results were announced, several aspirants began questioning the fairness of the selection process, alleging that meritorious candidates had been overlooked and that manipulation had influenced the final outcome.

According to the complainants, more than half of the recruitment process is suspected to have been influenced by illegal practices. They alleged that irregularities occurred at multiple stages of the selection process and called for a comprehensive probe by the investigating agencies.

Among the gravest allegations is the claim that appointments to the Veterinary Officer posts were allegedly being secured through middlemen in exchange for ₹80 lakh. As part of their complaint, the candidates submitted what they claimed was an audio recording purportedly capturing a conversation between an alleged agent and the family of a candidate.

According to the complainants, the alleged agent is heard telling the candidate’s family that the amount had already been fixed at ₹80 lakh and urging them to arrange the money without delay. The family was allegedly advised against making any online transfer and instead asked to bring the cash to Bengaluru. The agent is also said to have assured them that a cheque would be provided as security for the payment and that there was a “99 per cent chance” of securing the appointment.

The alleged intermediary reportedly went on to advise the candidate to complete documentation only after agreeing to the payment and assured the family that accommodation would be arranged in Bengaluru before the remaining formalities were completed.

The aspirants contend that the alleged conversation points to an organised network of middlemen operating within the recruitment process. They have urged investigators to verify the authenticity of the audio recording and identify every individual involved.

Demanding that the present selection process be scrapped, the candidates said a fresh recruitment conducted under strict supervision was essential to restore public confidence in the KPSC and ensure that appointments are made solely on merit.

The allegations, however, are based on the complaint submitted by the candidates and have not yet been independently verified. There was no immediate response from the KPSC or the Karnataka government on the allegations.

Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi, along with MPs and leaders of the INDIA bloc, is heading to Gandhi Smriti on Tees January Marg in Delhi to express solidarity with student protesters beaten by the police during their July 20 march to Parliament.

“Right now, MPs and leaders of the INDIA alliance are peacefully heading to Gandhi Smriti on Tees January Marg. We go to remember the students we lost – the children driven to take their own lives after the NEET paper leak. And we go to stand with the students who lie injured today – beaten for peacefully demanding justice and accountability,” Gandhi said in a post on X.

He added: “India’s students are not alone. The entire Opposition stands with them and their demands.”

Speaking to reporters from the bus, Rahul said they had initially planned to visit India Gate but were denied permission.

The Opposition leaders then decided to proceed to Gandhi Smriti.

“The students of our country are on the streets, so we felt that the Opposition should also be on the streets. First, all of us Opposition MPs wanted to go to India Gate, but we were not allowed to go. Then we were heading to Gandhi Smriti, but our bus has been stopped,” he said.

The bus was later allowed to proceed and the MPs reached the memorial.

Rahul said the Opposition’s message was for the students protesting at Jantar Mantar. “The entire Opposition is with you, and we are completely against the atrocities being committed against you,” he said.

Meanwhile, CPI(M) MP John Brittas said that the Opposition MPs are going to Gandhi Smriti “as this government is going to launch a crackdown on students.”

Earlier in the day, top Congress sources told The Statesman that Rahul will lead Opposition MPs to Gandhi Smriti for an indefinite sit-in in solidarity with the Jantar Mantar protesters.

Amid the ongoing Cockroach Janta Party-led students’ protest at Jantar Mantar, Gandhi called a meeting of Opposition MPs from both Houses of Parliament at his residence.

Shortly after the arrival of Opposition MPs, Rahul Gandhi boarded a bus as he, along with other MPs, left for Gandhi Smriti from his residence.

Although the Opposition Congress has supported the Cockroach Janta Party-led students’ protest at Jantar Mantar, Rahul Gandhi has shied away from sharing the stage with CJP leaders.

However, after the police crackdown on CJP protesters during their march to Parliament, Rahul condemned the action and staged a dharna outside Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s residence.

In anticipation of Rahul Gandhi’s sit-in, the Delhi police heightened presence of its personnel outside his residence.

A bus carrying Rapid Action Force (RAF) personnel also arrived outside Gandhi’s residence Gandhi in Delhi.

Earlier, leaders from other Opposition parties, including RJD MP Misa Bharti and Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Arvind Sawant also arrivex at Rahul Gandhi’s residence for the meeting.

Senior Congress leader P Chidambaram, TMC MPs Kalyan Banerjee and Mahua Moitra were also among the attendees who arrived the LoP’s residence.

BJP sees theatrics to upstage Jantar Mantar protests

As MPs began to reach Rahul Gandhi’s residence, BJP leader B.L. Santosh said that the LoP is up to some theatrics to upstage the Jantar Mantar protests.

“Another competitive drama unfolding at @RahulGandhi‘s home . With buses arriving & @INCIndia MPs dropping in he is up to some theatrics to upstage Jantar Mantar protests,” Santosh said on X.

“Nation is a casualty for sometime in this theatrical competition,” he added.

Haryana Education Minister Mahipal Dhanda outlined the state’s vision for holistic and future-ready school education while addressing the two-day national conclave of State and Union Territory Education Ministers in New Delhi. The conclave was held at the Bharat Ratna C Subramaniam Auditorium, Pusa, New Delhi, on July 22 and 23.

The conclave chaired by Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan reviewed the implementation of Centrally Sponsored Schemes and deliberated on key priorities for strengthening school education across the country.

Addressing the conference, Dhanda said he has complete faith in the capability, dedication and competence of Haryana’s teachers, describing them as the greatest strength of the State’s education system and the real architects of Viksit Bharat 2047.

The Education Minister said the purpose of education extends beyond imparting textbook knowledge or promoting intellectual development. True education, he said, is that which strengthens a child’s character, moral values, self-confidence and emotional understanding.

He said Haryana’s education policy aims to provide every child with equal opportunities to progress according to his or her individual interests and abilities. The State is transforming schools into vibrant institutions that nurture children’s aspirations, talents and overall personality, rather than merely serving as centres of academic instruction, said the Cabinet Minister.

Highlighting Haryana’s initiatives to improve the quality of school education, Dhanda said the State Government is placing special emphasis on strengthening Foundational Literacy and Numeracy (FLN) and improving learning outcomes.

Practical and skill-oriented curricula are being introduced to foster skills and an entrepreneurial mindset among students, while modern sports infrastructure is being developed to identify and nurture sporting talent from the school level.

Emphasising the pivotal role of teachers, the Education Minister said teachers do much more than teach the curriculum. They instil discipline, values and self-confidence in children and shape the nation’s future every day in classrooms. They are laying the foundation for Viksit Bharat 2047, he said, adding, I have complete faith in the capability, dedication and competence of our teachers, said the Minister. He also lauded the teaching fraternity of the State.

Stressing the need to continuously upgrade teachers’ knowledge and skills, Dhanda proposed that teacher training should be strengthened through collaboration with premier institutions such as ITIs, IIMTs, IIMs and CSIR. Such collaboration, he said, would make teacher training more effective, contemporary and outcome-oriented by equipping teachers with modern pedagogical practices and research-based teaching methodologies.

West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari on Thursday met the families of those who lost their lives in the Murshidabad railway crossing accident and handed over financial assistance of Rs 5 lakh to each of them.

Adhikari also assured that one member from every affected family would be provided with a government job.

The accident took place on July 17 when a train rammed into a school van while it was crossing a railway gate at Karnasubarna where four children and a cyclist were killed, while two others continue to undergo treatment in hospital.

“I have come here with a heavy heart. Innocent children, like blooming flowers, became victims of this tragedy. No words can ease the pain of the families. We stand beside them. No amount of money can compensate for such a loss. The financial assistance is from the government, not from me personally,” the chief minister said.

The chief minister also held the railway gatekeeper responsible for the accident, stating that the tragedy could have been avoided.

Citing preliminary findings shared by the railway authorities and police, he alleged that the gatekeeper acted negligently.

“The gatekeeper’s conduct was completely irresponsible. This is an unforgivable act, and he will face the strictest punishment under the law,” Adhikari said.

The accused gatekeeper has already been arrested.

The chief minister directed the police to complete the investigation while the accused remains in custody and submit the chargesheet at the earliest.

He also instructed the police and the local MLA to ensure that the case proceeds swiftly so that the accused receives the maximum punishment permitted by law.

The chief minister also visited the hospital to enquire about the condition of the two injured victims.

Breaking down in tears, Aziza Khatun who lost her only child in the accident requested employment for her husband, who currently works in Saudi Arabia.

The chief minister assured her that arrangements would be made within 15 days for a job in the state. She demanded strict punishment for the accused gatekeeper.

The chief minister said that no compensation could replace the lives lost and punishment alone would not bring back the victims but we will do everything possible according to law.

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Thursday urged the BJP government to open talks with students protesting at Jantar Mantar against the paper leak issue, saying the growing unrest among youth cannot be ignored and deserves a political response rather than confrontation.

Welcoming Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s announcement of fast-track courts for paper leak cases, Omar said legal action alone would not address students’ grievances and stressed that the government must engage directly with the protesters to find a solution.
“You have to sit down and talk to them somewhere. You can’t ignore so many youths”.
Referring to the ongoing protests in Delhi, the Chief Minister said the scale of the demonstrations had increased over time and said that tear gas had been used around Jantar Mantar also on Wednesday night.

“When there was the first program of the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) at Jantar Mantar, and only a few people attended, some people started mocking it. Now the situation in Delhi is before you. A large part of New Delhi is closed today. Even last night, tear gas had to be used around Jantar Mantar”, he said.

Omar said there was a sense of resentment among young people which he said had been ignored until now. Welcoming the Prime Minister’s remarks that the youth were important, he said it would be a positive step if the government held discussions with students regarding their concerns.

“Now, this is a good thing that the Prime Minister has said in his post that young people are important, and it would be a good thing to talk to them about their concerns”, Omar said.

Earlier, in a post on X, PM Modi stated that those involved in compromising the future of the youth “will not be spared”, adding that relevant authorities have been directed to take all necessary measures.

“Nothing is more important than the welfare and future of our youth! We have decided to set up fast-track courts to ensure swift and stringent punishment for those involved in paper leaks. Have directed the concerned authorities and officials to take all necessary steps in this regard. This continues our series of steps for safeguarding the interests of students. Those who try to harm the future of our youth will not be spared”, PM Modi wrote.

Reaffirming the Punjab government’s unwavering commitment to the welfare of economically and socially vulnerable sections, Social Security, Women and Child Development Minister Dr Baljit Kaur said that the state government, under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, released ₹2,150.73 crore under various Social Security Schemes during the current financial year up to June 2026. She said the government’s people-centric welfare policies ensure that financial assistance reaches every eligible beneficiary in a timely manner, enabling them to live with dignity and social security.

Sharing details, Dr. Baljit Kaur said that nearly 35.90 lakh beneficiaries across Punjab are receiving benefits under various Social Security Schemes. To ensure the timely and uninterrupted disbursement of financial assistance throughout the financial year 2026-27, the Punjab Government has made a budgetary provision of ₹6,131.91 crore, reaffirming its commitment to inclusive development and social justice.

The Cabinet Minister further informed that ₹1,423.33 crore has been released under the Old Age Pension Scheme up to June 2026, benefiting around 23.77 lakh senior citizens across the State. In addition, ₹727.40 crore has been released under other Social Security Schemes, benefiting nearly 12.13 lakh eligible beneficiaries, including widows, dependent children and other vulnerable sections of society.

Dr Baljit Kaur said that the regular and timely release of pensions and other social security benefits reflects the Punjab Government’s steadfast commitment to safeguarding the dignity and well-being of senior citizens and other deserving beneficiaries. She said these initiatives provide much-needed financial support to lakhs of families and strengthen the social security framework across the State.

The Cabinet Minister directed departmental officers to ensure that no eligible beneficiary in the State is deprived of the benefits of any Social Security Scheme. She instructed officials to further expedite and strengthen the verification and processing of newly received applications in a transparent, efficient and time-bound manner, enabling every deserving applicant to receive government welfare benefits without unnecessary delay.

Reiterating the government’s resolve, Dr. Baljit Kaur said that under the visionary leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, the Punjab Government will continue to strengthen the social security net so that every eligible beneficiary receives timely assistance and every vulnerable citizen can live with dignity, security and hope. She added that the government’s unwavering focus on inclusive welfare plays a vital role in realizing the vision of a ‘Rangla Punjab’, where no deserving citizen is left behind.

Anna Hazare stated on Thursday that violence can never be the solution to any issue.

The veteran social activist’s remark came a day after he wrote to Prime Minister Narendra Modi drawing his attention to the police action during the Cockroach Janata Party’s (CJP) protest at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi.

“Narendra Modi is a prominent and respected leader of the country. He should understand that violence is never the way forward,” Hazare told media persons.

“Whatever happened was wrong. I have led 22 hunger strikes in my lifetime but no incident of violence took place. Central government representatives should visit the protesters at Jantar Mantar. There is nothing wrong with listening to the protestors,” he added.

In his letter to PM Modi on Wednesday, the 89-year-old Gandhian stated that reports of violence and police action were “painful” and that violence, damage to public property, and unnecessary use of force had no place in a democracy.

Hazare stated in his letter to the PM that the concerns of young people about question paper leaks, delays in recruitment processes, unemployment and other issues should not be viewed merely as law and order problems but as a reflection of wider social distress.

He assured the Prime Minister that a Union cabinet minister’s resignation would not weaken the government but would send a strong message to other ministers about accountability, thereby improving their performance.

The letter referred to the CJP’s ‘Chalo Sansad’ march, which protested NEET examination irregularities and demanded the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, but the protest saw violence after police used tear gas and lathi charge to disperse protestors.

Hazare noted in his letter that irregularities in the NEET examination system had caused anxiety among students and parents. He maintained that accountability for irregularities and failures should not be limited to lower-level officials; senior authorities must also be held responsible.

Hazare wrote to the Prime Minister after Opposition parties attacked the Central government and adopted the demands made by CJP protestors for Dharmendra Pradhan’s resignation.

He stated that in a democracy, dialogue is always a better path than confrontation, even as he urged the central government not to view the voice of the people as the opposition’s voice.

He asserted that differences are natural in a democracy, but they should be resolved through dialogue, sensitivity and mutual respect.

The Gandhian activist pointed out that whenever irregularities or scams came to light, responsibility was often fixed only on lower-level officials while the government claimed credit for positive outcomes, emphasising that the ultimate responsibility rested with senior officials.

Hazare questioned why no senior government representative or secretary-level official had engaged with the agitators despite the protest continuing for several days.

The 36th Basic Course in Legislative Drafting, organised by the Institute of Legislative Drafting and Research (ILDR), Legislative Department, Ministry of Law and Justice, was inaugurated here, for officers of the state governments and Union Territories.

“The inaugural session was graced by the presence of Dr. Rajiv Mani, Secretary, Legislative Department and Department of Legal Affairs, Dr. Manoj Kumar, Additional Secretary and Course Director (ILDR), and other senior officers of the Department,” the Ministry of Law and Justice said on Thursday.

The Course was inaugurated at Vidhayi Sabhagar, Kartavya Bhavan-02, New Delhi. On the occasion, Dr. Rajiv Mani emphasised the need for uniform legislative drafting across the country to ensure clarity, consistency and legal certainty in laws, particularly in the era of grassroots legislative reforms, thereby facilitating their effective implementation.

The inauguration of the Course reaffirms the Legislative Department’s long-standing commitment to strengthening legislative drafting capacity across the country through structured training and capacity-building initiatives.

The said Course, being conducted from July 22 to September 25, has brought together 18 trainee officers from thirteen State Governments and one Union territory. It aims to enhance the participants’ understanding of the principles of legislative drafting while providing practical exposure to the drafting of legislative instruments, thereby equipping them with the knowledge and skills required for effective legislative drafting.

The programme is expected to further promote uniformity, precision and excellence in legislative drafting and strengthen the institutional capacity of State Governments and Union Territories.

Road accidents in India witnessed a sharp rise of 5.30 per cent to reach over 5.13 lakh in 2025, Parliament was informed on Tuesday. These have resulted in the deaths of 21 persons every hour.

In a written reply to the Lok Sabha, Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari informed that on an average, 59 road accidents took place every hour in the country, PTI reported.

In 2025, a total of 5,13,563 road accidents were reported by the police departments of states and Union Territories in the country. Overall, these claimed the lives of 1,83,382 people, the Union Minister added.

The report highlights that among the states, Tamil Nadu reported the highest number of accidents at 71,387, while Uttar Pradesh recorded the highest number of fatalities at 27,550 last year.

Gadkari informed that the government has formulated a multi-pronged strategy to address the issue of road safety based on 4E’s – Education, Engineering (both of roads and vehicles), Enforcement and Emergency Care.

In response to another question, Gadkari said that based on the information received from SIAM, no widespread issues of engine failure or vehicle breakdown attributable to ethanol blending have been reported.

“Certain concerns relating to engine performance, mileage and vehicle wear have been arising largely through public commentary and social media discourse,” he said.

He added that E15+ blended petrol has been in widespread use in India for more than three-and-a-half years.

The Public Accounts Committee (PAC) in the West Bengal Assembly is on its way to be formulated without any contest after nominations were filed on Thursday.

As per Assembly sources, a total of 20 nominations were received, matching the strength of the committee, making a formal election unnecessary unless any nomination is withdrawn or challenged.

The nominations, however, reflected the continuing factional divide within the Opposition Trinamool Congress. Of the six Opposition nominees, one name was proposed by the Kalighat faction, while the remaining five were backed by the Ritabrata Bandopadhyay camp.

Senior MLA Ashok Deb has been nominated by the Kalighat group. The Ritabrata camp has proposed the names of Firhad Hakim, Biplab Mitra, Golam Rabbani, Kanaiyalal Agarwal and Samar Mukhopadhyay. The remaining 14 nominees are from the ruling side.

According to Assembly sources, they include Anup Kumar Saha, Amlan Bhaduri, Bankim Chandra Ghosh, Hiranmoy Chattopadhyay, Krishnendu Mukhopadhyay, Rajesh Kumar, Roopa Ganguly, Saikat Panja, Samarendra Nath Ghosh, Sikha Chattopadhyay, Sonam Lama, Sourav Sikdar, Subrata Thakur and Swapan Kumar Das.

Political attention is now focused on the post of PAC chairman. By long-standing Parliamentary convention, the chairmanship of the Public Accounts Committee is allotted to the Opposition. Assembly sources indicated that Firhad Hakim is emerging as the frontrunner for the post.

The issue has acquired added political significance in view of the ongoing rivalry within the Opposition Trinamool Congress. If Hakim is chosen as chairman, it would strengthen the Ritabrata camp’s position while leaving the Kalighat faction without representation in the committee’s top post.

The chairmanship of the PAC has been the subject of controversy in West Bengal in the past. During the previous Trinamool regime, the appointment of Opposition legislators considered close to the ruling establishment, including Mukul Roy, Manas Bhunia and Suman Kanjilal, as PAC chairmen had drawn criticism from rival parties. At the time, the Opposition, led by Suvendu Adhikari, had boycotted PAC meetings, alleging that the spirit of parliamentary convention had been compromised.

With voting now unlikely, the focus has shifted from the election itself to the choice of the committee’s chairman, a decision expected to carry significant political implications within the Opposition ranks.