The Congress on Wednesday intensified its agitation over the NEET-UG paper leak row and the detention of Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi and party MP Priyanka Gandhi, holding coordinated protests across multiple states while launching a nationwide outreach programme targeting students.

Demonstrations were reported from Gujarat, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Telangana and Assam, with police detaining Congress workers at several locations as the party accused the Centre of suppressing protests over issues affecting students.

In Ahmedabad, Congress workers protested against the detention of Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi and the NEET paper leak. Similar protests were held in Surat, where several workers were detained by police.

#WATCH | Surat, Gujarat: Congress workers detained during protest over the detention of Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi and NEET paper leak pic.twitter.com/gtUqYGMco7

— ANI (@ANI) July 22, 2026

In Hyderabad, police personnel were deployed outside Lok Bhavan after the Telangana Congress called for a protest condemning Rahul Gandhi’s detention.

In Bengaluru, Congress workers staging a protest outside the BJP office were detained by police.

#WATCH | Bengaluru, Karnataka: Congress workers detained as they stage a protest in front of the BJP office pic.twitter.com/ckkwo16YLM

— ANI (@ANI) July 22, 2026

In Chennai, the Tamil Nadu Congress protested against the alleged police lathi charge on protesters in Delhi and the detention of Rahul Gandhi.

#WATCH | Chennai: Tamil Nadu Congress protests against police lathi charge on protestors in Delhi and the detention of Rahul Gandhi pic.twitter.com/4ajfPvyaam

— ANI (@ANI) July 22, 2026

Congress legislators in Assam also staged a protest inside the State Assembly in Guwahati, demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over the NEET-UG paper leak issue.

Also Read | Explainer: Is AAP notching up CJP protest after Rahul Gandhi snatched anti-govt initiative with PM gherao?

The protests coincided with the Congress’ nationwide student engagement programme announced by party General Secretary (Organisation) KC Venugopal.

In a letter to party leaders and workers, Venugopal urged them to engage with students in colleges, universities, coaching centres and hostels across the country, citing concerns over repeated paper leaks, examination delays, recruitment uncertainty, rising education costs and unemployment.

He said the programme builds on Rahul Gandhi’s ‘Chhatron Ki Goonj’ campaign, launched in Kota on June 17 and continued in Dehradun on July 17, which seeks reforms in the education system.

Venugopal also criticised the police action during Monday’s protests in Delhi, alleging that senior Congress leaders, including party president Mallikarjun Kharge, Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi, were manhandled during a demonstration outside the Prime Minister’s residence.

Separately, Rahul Gandhi defended the Opposition’s decision to stage a sit-in near the Prime Minister’s residence, saying it came after the government showed no willingness to allow a parliamentary debate on the treatment of students during recent protests.

Speaking to reporters after meeting the Lok Sabha Speaker, Gandhi said he had sought a discussion in Parliament but was told the Speaker would need the government’s permission.

“The Speaker said he needed to take permission from the Government, but it was very clear to us… that there was no interest in the Government of having a debate,” Gandhi said.

भारत के छात्रों और प्रधानमंत्री को मेरा सीधा संदेश… pic.twitter.com/pgZZHLLz8h

— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) July 21, 2026

Calling the education crisis one of the country’s biggest concerns, he questioned repeated examination paper leaks, the rising cost of education and the financial burden on families.

Gandhi demanded the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan and Home Minister Amit Shah, action against those responsible for allegedly assaulting protesting students, and the withdrawal of cases registered against them.

He also urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to apologise to students and initiate reforms in the examination and education system.

The Congress has maintained that the nationwide campaign aims to mobilise support among students over examination-related issues, while the latest protests underline the Opposition’s continued confrontation with the Centre over the NEET paper leak controversy.

(With inputs from ANI and IANS)

Amid heated exchanges in the Lok Sabha on Wednesday over the issue of NEET question paper leak and the police action against protesters in the national capital, Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju said the central government is prepared to discuss the matter.

However, Rijiju clarified that the format, duration and procedural rules governing the much-accepted debate would be decided by the Speaker after consultations with the floor leaders of all political parties.

“The government is ready to discuss the NEET paper leak issue. However, when the discussion takes place, it happens in line with a rule. When the discussion is held, for how long and under which rule should be decided by the Speaker after meeting with all party floor leaders. The government is ready to discuss the issue, and we all want to engage in a meaningful discussion regarding the future of this country’s youth,” Rijiju said.

#WATCH | In Lok Sabha, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju says, “For three days we have been offering that the Government is absolutely ready to have a discussion on NEET paper leak issue. Since day 1 we have been saying that discussions have to be held as per rules.… pic.twitter.com/6S3zNufU9y

— ANI (@ANI) July 22, 2026

While raising the matter in the Lower House of the Parliament, Congress MP K.C. Venugopal reiterated the Opposition’s demand for Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan’s resignation and urged the government to accept an adjournment motion to facilitate a discussion on the issue.

“Our demand is very clear: Education Minister should resign. If you accept the adjournment motion, then discuss it,” Venugopal said.

Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav also intervened during the proceedings and stated that the matter transcended party politics and directly concerned the future of students and young people. He said every political party should be given an opportunity to express its views in the House.

“This issue is not of Congress, Samajwadi Party or the BJP; it’s about the youth of the country. You let him (Venugopal) and them (Rijiju) speak; was the problem solved? Why was I not allowed to speak? This stand is not right. This is about the youth and students, and we all are standing with them,” Yadav said.

Further, Akhilesh Yadav criticised the central government’s handling of the protests and alleged that students had been subjected to excessive force during the July 20 demonstration.

“When the students will not be heard, we will come out on the streets. The way the government has behaved with the students… their hands and heads were broken, their clothes were torn. Will you (the government) tear the clothes of our daughters?” he questioned.

He added, “We went outside the Prime Minister’s residence in desperation. If you had allowed us to speak here, we wouldn’t have gone. Can the Prime Minister not give a statement here? If he can do it outside, then why not in the House?”

For nearly a month, the Cockroach Janta Party’s (CJP) protest at Delhi’s Jantar Mantar was the face of the agitation over the alleged NEET-UG 2026 paper leak. But within 24 hours of Rahul Gandhi leading a march towards Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s residence, the conversation had shifted – from students at Jantar Mantar to the Congress leader’s detention, Parliament protests and a political slugfest between the Opposition and the BJP.

AAP now claims that, in the process, the original movement has been pushed into the background. Congress rejects that suggestion, saying it has only amplified the students’ demands. Meanwhile, the CJP has repeatedly stressed that its protest remains confined to Jantar Mantar.

Here’s how the political battle unfolded.

How did the CJP become the face of the anti-paper leak movement?

For nearly a month, the CJP has anchored a student-led protest at Jantar Mantar over the alleged NEET-UG 2026 paper leak. The protesters have sought an end to repeated examination irregularities, reforms to the examination system and the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.

The movement has also been backed by activist Sonam Wangchuk, whose fast became one of the defining features of the agitation.

Even after clashes between protesters and Delhi Police during the “Sansad Chalo” march, the organisation continued to maintain its base at Jantar Mantar, positioning the protest as a student-led movement rather than a party campaign.

How Rahul Gandhi changed the course of the protest

The political focus shifted after Rahul Gandhi, Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and other senior leaders marched towards Lok Kalyan Marg, demanding accountability over the paper leak issue and the resignation of Dharmendra Pradhan.

Rahul Gandhi and several Congress leaders were detained by Delhi Police during the protest.

The Congress followed it up by staging demonstrations inside and outside Parliament, with Opposition MPs wearing black clothes in protest against the detention of leaders and the alleged police action against students.

Congress leaders also met injured students and repeatedly asserted that they were amplifying the demands of the protesters.

As a result, the political conversation quickly moved beyond Jantar Mantar, centring instead on Rahul Gandhi’s detention, the Congress-BJP confrontation and protests outside the Prime Minister’s residence.

Why is AAP accusing Congress of weakening the movement?

AAP leaders were quick to question the timing and impact of the Congress protest.

Former Delhi Chief Minister Atishi alleged that while the CJP and Sonam Wangchuk had protested for nearly a month without receiving any response from the Centre, the government initiated talks soon after Rahul Gandhi’s demonstration outside the Prime Minister’s residence.

In a post on X, she wrote:

“CJP and Sonam Wangchuk: One month protest at Jantar Mantar. Modi govt refuses to talk to them. Rahul Gandhi: Allowed to protest outside PM residence. In one hour Modi Govt starts dialogue. Wah! Kya jugalbandi hai!”

Also very interesting: the same Delhi Police that was not allowing CJP to move even 100 metres towards Parliament, allowed Rahul Gandhi to reach right outside PM Residence!

Do we need any more evidence that Congress-BJP is one unit? #BJPCongressEkHain https://t.co/G7z9S7EI4q

— Atishi (@AtishiAAP) July 21, 2026

AAP Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Singh went a step further, alleging that the Congress protest was weakening the original student movement.

He claimed that the Modi government had “seated Rahul Gandhi on a dharna at his residence” to weaken the CJP protest.

In another post, Singh accused Congress of asking people to join Rahul Gandhi’s protest instead of the one at Jantar Mantar.

“For the past 23 days, Wangchuk ji has been on a fast unto death. The youth movement is taking place at Jantar Mantar… Why does the Congress want to weaken the youth movement? Why doesn’t the Congress appeal to join the Jantar Mantar movement?”

AAP leader Anurag Dhanda echoed the charge, alleging that Congress was attempting to divert media attention away from the students’ agitation.

“The Prime Minister has effectively invited Rahul Gandhi to stage a sit-in outside his own residence… a deliberate attempt to divert attention away from the hundreds of injured students at Jantar Mantar,” Dhanda claimed.

What did the CJP say after Rahul Gandhi’s call?

As the Congress protest gathered momentum, the CJP issued a public clarification distancing itself from any demonstrations outside Jantar Mantar.

In a statement on X, the organisation said:

“Cockroach Janta Party has not given a call to assemble anywhere but at Jantar Mantar, where our peaceful protest is on.”

It also claimed to have received reports that “some goons” might create disturbances elsewhere in Delhi and asserted that such people were “not with CJP.”

IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENT

Cockroach Janta Party has not given a call to assemble anywhere but at Jantar Mantar, where our peaceful protest is on.

We received reports that some goons may have been sent to other parts of Delhi to create nuisance. They are NOT with CJP.

-… pic.twitter.com/2jY0luT4CE

— Cockroach is Back (@Cockroachisback) July 21, 2026

The clarification came after Congress leaders appealed to people to join their protest, reinforcing the CJP’s position that its official movement continued only from Jantar Mantar.

What is Congress saying?

Congress has rejected suggestions that it was competing with the student movement.

Instead, party leaders have argued that they were raising the same demands inside Parliament and on the streets.

Rahul Gandhi met injured students, while Congress leaders continued demanding the resignation of Dharmendra Pradhan and accountability for the alleged paper leak.

On Wednesday, Opposition MPs wore black clothes in Parliament to protest against the detention of Rahul Gandhi and the police action against students.

Congress leaders maintained that they would continue supporting the students’ demands irrespective of police action.

Why does this political battle matter?

The immediate issue remains the alleged NEET-UG paper leak and the demands for examination reforms.

However, within the Opposition, another contest has emerged over who represents that movement politically.

AAP’s statements suggest it believes the Congress shifted public attention away from the month-long agitation at Jantar Mantar by turning the issue into a confrontation centred on Rahul Gandhi’s protest outside the Prime Minister’s residence.

Congress, on the other hand, maintains that it merely elevated the students’ concerns to the national stage.

Whether the spotlight ultimately remains on the student movement or on the political contest surrounding it could shape the next phase of the anti-paper leak campaign.

As protests over alleged paper leaks continue at Delhi’s Jantar Mantar, delivery partners say anonymous supporters from India and abroad are sending food and beverages to demonstrators through online delivery platforms.

Several delivery agents told ANI they have been receiving orders with instructions to distribute the items among students and protesters at the site instead of handing them to a specific recipient.

Pradeep Kumar Singh, a Swiggy delivery partner, said such deliveries have become common over the past few days.

“An order comes, and then the person says, ‘Brother, distribute it right there; give it to whoever needs it.’ Yesterday, I had an order for samosas. I was told to just bring them here and distribute them. No one comes to collect them,” Singh said.

Some of the orders are also being placed from outside India, according to delivery personnel.

Mahendra Kumar, another delivery partner, said he delivered tea that had been ordered by a customer overseas.

“I’ve brought this order; it was placed from outside India. They said, ‘Go to Jantar Mantar and give it to the brothers.’ I don’t know whose it is, but they told me to give the tea to the brothers who are protesting here,” he said.

Another delivery executive, who said he was carrying orders through Zomato and Zepto, described the initiative as “student service.”

“The sender is anonymous. They said, ‘Just distribute it.’ I don’t know who ordered it, but I was just told to go there and give it. It’s ‘student service,’ it’s for the students. I also don’t know whose it is or what’s in it,” he said.

Delhi Police register 10 FIRs

Meanwhile, the Delhi Police have registered 10 FIRs in connection with the protests organised by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) in the national capital.

Police officials said the cases were registered across multiple police station jurisdictions in the New Delhi district over incidents linked to the demonstrations and law-and-order concerns.

According to officials, four FIRs were registered at Parliament Street police station, three at Connaught Place police station, and one each at Mandir Marg, Barakhamba Road and Kartavya Path police stations.

Rajkummar Rao has weighed in on the CJP protests that have been making headlines this week. Taking to Instagram, the actor asked students and authorities alike to sit down and talk things out instead of letting the situation turn ugly.

He wrote that when young people feel unheard, it says something about society, not about them. Rao believes every person deserves to be heard, and heard with dignity. His words landed at a time when the protests have grabbed national attention, with people from all walks of life demanding that the government actually respond.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by RajKummar Rao (@rajkummar_rao)

No room for violence, says Rao

Rao was firm about one thing. Violence, no matter who starts it, doesn’t solve anything. It just pushes people further apart. A lot of other public figures have said something similar over the past few days, as the protests have grown messier.

He called this a time for compassion, not confrontation. Students, he said, have every right to speak up, as long as they do it responsibly. And he had a message for the other side too, asking authorities to actually listen instead of just reacting.

Talk it out, don’t fight it out

At the heart of Rao’s message was one simple idea. Change doesn’t come from shouting matches. It comes from sitting down and talking. That’s what he thinks the country needs right now, more than anything else.

He also brought up something bigger than the protests themselves. Everyone, he said, wants the same thing at the end of the day, which is to see the country grow. But that growth only happens if education is fair for everyone.

What’s actually happening

The CJP protests have been running for several days now. Students are angry over recent decisions they feel will hurt their future and shrink their chances at fair opportunities. It’s not just one college either. Students from multiple institutions have joined in, and the whole thing has taken over social media timelines, pulling in celebrities and public figures who want to have their say.

Things got tense when reports of clashes during the protests started doing the rounds. That’s when actors, activists and political voices started speaking up, most of them asking for the same thing Rao did: calm things down.

As ‘Jana Nayagan’ gets ready to release in theatres on July 23, director H Vinoth has finally addressed one of the biggest questions surrounding the film — why Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Vijay never publicly urged fans to avoid watching the leaked version.

Speaking to reporters in Chennai during the film’s final promotional event on Tuesday, Vinoth said Vijay’s silence was a conscious decision to avoid unnecessary political controversy. According to the director, making a public appeal could have shifted attention away from the real issue and sparked criticism over the actor-turned-politician’s priorities.

‘It could have invited criticism,’ says Vinoth

Vinoth explained that if Vijay had spoken about the leak, political opponents might have questioned why he chose to comment on a film while remaining silent on other public issues.

The director said people could have asked why Vijay was making an appeal about a movie when there were several larger concerns in the country, including issues affecting farmers. Such comparisons, he felt, would only have created fresh political debates instead of helping the situation.

Because of this possibility, Vijay decided not to intervene publicly.

Leak was a legal matter, not a political one

Vinoth stressed that the leak was handled through the proper legal process. He said the producers filed a complaint with the police, making it a matter for law enforcement rather than public statements from Vijay.

According to the filmmaker, Vijay chose not to involve himself because doing so could have distracted from the investigation and invited unnecessary political criticism.

Director rejects conspiracy claims

During the interaction, Vinoth also dismissed claims that ‘Jana Nayagan’ had been intentionally leaked to benefit Vijay politically before the upcoming Tamil Nadu Assembly elections.

Calling the allegation completely baseless, the director said such accusations had personally upset him.

He argued that a film made on a massive budget of around Rs 400 crore could not simply be leaked as part of a planned political strategy. If such a conspiracy had actually existed, he said, investigating agencies would have uncovered it within hours or days.

‘Vijay had no political power then’

Vinoth also pointed out that Vijay was not serving as the Chief Minister when the film first appeared online in high definition months before its theatrical release.

He said Vijay had very little political influence at that time, making claims of a politically motivated leak unreasonable. According to the director, such allegations are now being made only to gain political mileage.

Team relieved after months of uncertainty

The filmmaker admitted that the film’s journey to release had been emotionally exhausting for everyone involved. ‘Jana Nayagan’ was originally planned for a Pongal release in January but faced a seven-month delay.

Vinoth said the team now feels relieved that the long struggle is finally ending. He added that they believe audiences will support the film and deliver justice through their response at the box office.

The delay was caused by a lengthy certification process and legal hurdles before the film finally secured its July 23 release date.

Vijay’s final film before full-time politics

‘Jana Nayagan’ is especially significant because it marks Vijay’s final film before he fully shifts his attention to politics.

Directed by H Vinoth, the political drama features an ensemble cast including Pooja Hegde, Bobby Deol, Mamitha Baiju, Prakash Raj, Gautham Vasudev Menon and Narain. After months of controversy, delays and the leak issue, the film is finally set to reach theatres on July 23.

A delegation of Left Members of Parliament visited Jantar Mantar on Tuesday to express solidarity with students protesting over alleged irregularities in the education sector and to condemn the police action during the “Sansad Chalo” march in Delhi.

The delegation included CPI MPs P Sandosh Kumar, K Subbarayan and PP Suneer; CPI(M) MPs Amra Ram, John Brittas, K Radhakrishnan, V Sivadasan, AA Raheem and R Sachidanandam; and Kerala Congress (M) MP Jose K Mani.

Addressing the protesters, the MPs alleged that the police used excessive force against students during Monday’s attempted march to Parliament and demanded accountability from the Centre. They called on Union Home Minister Amit Shah to make a statement in Parliament, saying the Delhi Police functions under the Union Home Ministry.

The MPs also reiterated the Opposition’s demand for the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over the alleged examination irregularities. They raised slogans in support of the protesting students and sought justice for those injured during the police crackdown.

The BJP government is trying to stifle this democratic protest with violence, but they will inevitably face defeat at the hands of these brave students. I went to Jantar Mantar with Left MPs to express my solidarity.#studentsprotest #cjp #pradhanmustresign #neet pic.twitter.com/m91uD8MkFm

— John Brittas (@JohnBrittas) July 21, 2026

The visit came a day after Delhi Police stopped thousands of demonstrators from marching towards Parliament using barricades, tear gas and baton charges, triggering protests by Opposition parties inside and outside Parliament.

Actor Abhay Deol has come out in support of students protesting the recent violence in Delhi, using his social media platform to call out what he sees as India’s deep-rooted social divisions.

Abhay posted the well-known post-war poem “First They Came” by German pastor Martin Niemöller, a piece often quoted for its warning that staying silent about injustice against others eventually catches up with everyone.

In his caption, he didn’t hold back. He said people love talking about the nation with pride, but in reality stay divided along lines of religion, caste, class and language. According to him, India has always put community loyalty ahead of national unity, and that’s exactly what makes it so hard for people to come together when it actually matters. He pointed to fear, apathy and a “look out for yourself” mindset as the real barriers.

 

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A post shared by Abhay Deol (@abhaydeol)

On the lack of collective responsibility

He also took aim at how little people trust that others will show up for them in tough times, which he says feeds a mindset where everyone just focuses on their own survival. Abhay went further, saying that poverty in India isn’t only about money. It’s also a poverty of thinking, a willingness to settle for the bare minimum instead of pushing for something better.

“Injustice has reached your doorstep”

He urged people to stop blaming movies or the media and instead have real, uncomfortable conversations with their own families about the beliefs they hold. The real gap, he said, isn’t between religions or castes but between old mindsets and a newer generation ready for change. People need to evolve with the times, he warned, or risk getting left behind. He ended by pointing out that injustice and violence aren’t new to India, but things have now reached a point where even those who used to look away can’t anymore.

What Abhay Deol is up to professionally

Abhay last appeared in the 2023 web series “Trial By Fire,” alongside Ashish Vidyarthi, Anupam Kher, Rajshri Deshpande, Rajesh Tailang, Ratna Pathak Shah, Shilpa Shukla and Shardul Bharadwaj. The show is based on the book “Trial by Fire: The Tragic Tale of the Uphaar Fire Tragedy” by Neelam Krishnamoorthy and Shekhar Krishnamoorthy, and retells the story of the Uphaar Cinema fire and the families’ long fight for justice.

A Rapid Action Force (RAF) jawan was allegedly attacked during the Cockroach Janta Party’s (CJP) ‘Sansad Chalo’ protest in the New Delhi area, prompting Delhi Police to register a case over what officials described as a life-threatening assault.

Police sources said more than nine FIRs have been registered so far in connection with incidents reported during Monday’s protest march.

The FIR relating to the alleged attack on the RAF jawan has been registered separately, and the matter is under investigation.

According to police sources, the remaining FIRs pertain to various incidents linked to the demonstrations in different parts of the New Delhi district.

Seeing this made my blood boil.

A RAF jawan was brutally beaten by a mob of around 100 CJP protesters in the middle of the road. 💔💔

You’re only saved because of democracy, Abhijeet Dipke. Otherwise, if this had happened in Boston, you would have been rotting in jail by now. pic.twitter.com/ACQGaDSE3U

— Amit Kumar Sindhi (@AMIT_GUJJU) July 21, 2026

Police release video of stone-pelting

On Monday, Delhi Police released video footage that allegedly showed protesters throwing stones in the Connaught Place area.

According to police, the footage captured a group of youths pelting stones either from behind police barricades or by moving close to them before throwing the stones. Following the release of the video, police appealed to demonstrators to remain peaceful, avoid violence and cooperate with security personnel to maintain law and order.

🚨आज हुए उग्र प्रदर्शन के दौरान ड्यूटी पर तैनात दिल्ली पुलिस के विशेष आयुक्त, संयुक्त आयुक्त, अतिरिक्त आयुक्त और उपायुक्त रैंक के अधिकारियों सहित दिल्ली पुलिस और केन्द्रीय पुलिस बलों के कुल 118 पुलिसकर्मियों से अधिक को चोटें आई, @CPDelhi श्री अनुराग कुमार ने अस्पताल जाकर घायल… pic.twitter.com/SGpiONjbd7

— Delhi Police (@DelhiPolice) July 20, 2026

Authorities allege protesters ignored warnings

Police officials claimed that the protest turned violent after participants allegedly displayed aggressive and unruly behaviour.

According to the officials, repeated warnings and lawful directions were issued to the crowd, asking them to disperse. However, they alleged that protesters refused to leave the area and knowingly violated the prohibitory orders that were in force during the demonstration.

Investigation expands with multiple criminal cases

The latest FIRs come a day after Delhi Police had confirmed that five cases had already been registered over alleged violence, vandalism and stone-pelting during the protest at Jantar Mantar.

Investigators are also examining whether the violence was part of a planned conspiracy. Police sources said officials are reviewing more than 250 videos collected from different sources to identify people involved in the incidents and establish the sequence of events.

The cases have been registered at the Parliament Street and Connaught Place police stations under various provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023, the Arms Act, 1959, and the Prevention of Damage to Public Property (PDPP) Act.

Cases include drone use, conspiracy and attacks on police

Police said one FIR relates to the alleged operation of a drone without permission in the New Delhi district during the ongoing Parliament session.

Another case concerns an alleged conspiracy to trigger violence, with investigators claiming that several important pieces of evidence have emerged during the probe.

Two additional FIRs deal with allegations of obstructing government work, assaulting police personnel and causing damage to public property.

The FIR registered at the Parliament Street police station includes charges under several sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita. These include Section 223(b), which deals with disobeying an order issued by a public servant or obstructing government work, Section 221 for obstructing or influencing a public servant while performing official duties, and Section 132, which relates to assaulting or using criminal force against a public servant to prevent them from carrying out their duty.

Indian pharmaceutical stocks fell in early trade on Wednesday after US President Donald Trump announced a phased tariff regime on imported generic medicines, signalling a push to bring pharmaceutical manufacturing back to the United States.

The proposed policy will keep tariffs on imported generic drugs at zero from August 1, 2026, for two years. Duties will then rise to 100 per cent for one year before increasing to 200 per cent thereafter, according to a post by Trump on Truth Social.

He said the policy is intended to encourage companies to establish manufacturing facilities in the US, while the existing framework for patented, branded and innovative medicines will remain unchanged.

“Effective August 1st, 2026, all Generic Drugs being brought into the United States will continue to have a TARIFF of ZERO PERCENT for a two year period of time, after which the TARIFF will be raised to 100% for a one year period of time, and 200% thereafter,” Trump said.

He added that the objective of the policy is to protect Americans and claimed pharmaceutical manufacturing facilities are already being built across the country at an unprecedented pace.

Indian pharma shares decline

The announcement weighed on Indian pharmaceutical stocks during opening trade.

The Nifty Pharma index dropped nearly 2 per cent, while Sun Pharmaceutical Industries, Cipla, Dr Reddy’s Laboratories, Lupin and Aurobindo Pharma were among the major losers, declining by around 2-2.5 per cent as investors assessed the proposed tariff regime.

Analysts see limited impact on Indian drugmakers

Despite the initial market reaction, Motilal Oswal Financial Services believes the proposed tariffs are unlikely to have a material impact on Indian companies supplying generic medicines to the US.

Tushar Manudhane, Senior Vice President and Institutional Research Analyst (Healthcare) at Motilal Oswal Financial Services, said several Indian pharmaceutical companies already operate US subsidiaries and products typically enter the US market at transfer prices that differ significantly from their final retail prices.

“The tariff is presumably at pricing at which it enters US market,” he said.

He also noted that nearly 90 per cent of generic prescriptions in the United States are imported, meaning any tariff would apply to suppliers from multiple countries rather than targeting India alone.

“Secondly, 90 per cent of generic prescription is imported by US, effectively increasing the tariff for everyone (as and when it happens) supplying to US market and it is not India specific,” he said.

According to Manudhane, India’s manufacturing cost advantage remains substantial, with production costs estimated to be 40-60 per cent lower than in the US.

He added that establishing manufacturing facilities in the United States would involve significant investment and lengthy regulatory approvals.

“Even if the manufacturing plant is set up (which itself takes two years at least), it would be required to undergo plant inspection and subsequent product approval cycle of at least 12-15 months, further prolonging any competition to kick in,” he said.

“Above factors questions the economic viability of setting up a manufacturing plant in US for generics.”

He concluded that the overall impact on Indian pharmaceutical exporters is likely to remain minimal.

Trump also tightens aluminium import policy

In a separate move, Trump signed a proclamation under Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act of 1962 to adjust aluminium imports, citing national security concerns.

According to the White House, the measure is intended to strengthen the US defence industrial base. The proclamation also directs the Commerce Secretary to create an incentive programme for companies investing in the construction, expansion or refurbishment of aluminium smelters in the United States.

After months of uncertainty, legal hurdles and controversy, ‘Jana Nayagan’, the last film of Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Vijay as an actor, is finally ready for its theatrical release. The political drama, directed by H Vinoth, arrives around seven months later than originally planned after facing certification issues and a prolonged legal battle.

During the delay, the film also became the centre of a major controversy when an alleged pirated version surfaced online. Some political critics claimed the leak was intentional and meant to benefit Vijay ahead of the Tamil Nadu Assembly elections. Ahead of the film’s release, Vinoth has firmly denied those allegations.

Also Read: Jana Nayagan’s CBFC clearance: What got muted, cut and replaced

Director rejects leak conspiracy theory

Speaking to reporters in Chennai during the film’s final promotional campaign on Tuesday, H Vinoth was asked whether the online leak had been planned to influence the elections.

The director dismissed the claim completely and said the accusation had deeply troubled him. According to Vinoth, a film made on a massive budget of around ₹400 crore could not simply be leaked without authorities quickly tracing those responsible.

He said that if such a planned conspiracy had existed, investigators would have uncovered it within hours or days.

‘Vijay had little power then’

Vinoth also pointed out that when the alleged leak happened, Vijay had not yet become the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu. He said the actor-turned-politician did not hold significant power in the state at that time, making the political allegations unreasonable.

According to the filmmaker, such claims were made only to gain political attention rather than being based on facts.

Why Vijay stayed silent on piracy

The director was also questioned about why Vijay never appealed to his fans not to watch the leaked version of the film.

Vinoth explained that such an appeal could itself have triggered fresh criticism. He said people might have questioned why Vijay was speaking about a film leak when several larger public issues, including farmers’ concerns, also deserved attention.

He added that the piracy incident was purely a legal matter. The producer filed a complaint, after which the police handled the investigation according to the law.

Vinoth said Vijay deliberately stayed away from the issue because his involvement could have shifted attention from the legal process and invited unnecessary criticism.

Months of delay finally end

The filmmaker admitted that the long wait between the planned January 2026 release and the final July release was emotionally difficult.

He described the period as one of anxiety but said there is now a feeling of relief. Vinoth expressed hope that audiences would support the film and deliver the justice the team had been waiting for after months of challenges.

Acharya Balkrishna of Patanjali Ayurved, has shared fresh health information about fennel seeds on Facebook. He says this everyday kitchen ingredient can do a lot more for the body than most people realise.

According to Acharya Balkrishna, fennel seeds are loaded with potassium. This mineral plays a big role in keeping the body’s fluid balance in check. It also supports proper nerve and muscle function, something the body needs every single day to work smoothly.

Good news for blood pressure

Health experts often point out that potassium helps offset the effects of sodium in the body. Too much sodium is one of the leading reasons behind high blood pressure. When potassium levels are adequate, blood vessels face less pressure. This can keep blood pressure within a healthier range.

Acharya Balkrishna explained that this is exactly why fennel works well for people dealing with high blood pressure. Regular intake is also considered good for overall heart health.

Boosts brain function too

Acharya Balkrishna added that fennel is not just good for the heart, it helps the brain as well. In Ayurveda, fennel has long been considered nourishing for the mind. It contains antioxidants that protect brain cells from damage. Over time, this can support better memory and sharper focus.

Helps manage body weight

Fennel seeds also carry a good amount of fibre. Acharya Balkrishna pointed out that this fibre content is what helps the body keep weight under control. Fibre keeps the stomach feeling full for longer. This means fewer hunger pangs and less chance of overeating through the day.

Nutrition experts generally agree that fibre-rich foods also support digestion. Many people struggling with constipation find relief simply by adding more fibre to their meals.

Keeps cholesterol in check

Another benefit Acharya Balkrishna highlighted is cholesterol control. The fibre in fennel helps bring down LDL, commonly known as bad cholesterol. Lower LDL levels usually mean a reduced risk of heart disease.

Doctors often warn that high bad cholesterol raises the chances of heart attacks and strokes. This is why fibre-rich foods like fennel are frequently recommended as part of a heart-healthy diet.

Simple ways to add fennel to your day

Fennel seeds are easy to include in daily life. Many households already use it as a mouth freshener after meals. Some people soak fennel seeds overnight and drink the water first thing in the morning on an empty stomach. It can also be added while making tea.

In Ayurveda, fennel is seen as a digestive aid too. That makes it a small addition to your diet that can bring multiple benefits at once.

Veteran actor Naseeruddin Shah has strongly criticised the police action during the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP)’s ‘Chalo Sansad’ march, expressing support for the young protesters and condemning the alleged use of force against them. In a video shared on Instagram, the 76-year-old actor said the treatment of the demonstrators had deeply upset him and insisted that his faith in India’s youth had only become stronger.

His remarks come at a time when protests over alleged examination irregularities have intensified in Delhi, drawing widespread political and public attention.

Shah attacks those behind the crackdown

In his video message, Shah criticised the country’s leadership and linked the alleged violence against protesters to a wider problem of intolerance.

“I would like to say two things to you all. The first thing is that if an ignorant person leads this country, then his heart will want the whole country to become as ignorant, incomprehensible, and merciless as he is,” he said.

The actor did not hold back while describing the scenes from the protest site, saying the way young demonstrators were treated had filled him with anger.

Reflects on teaching career, praises students

Shah also spoke about his long association with acting schools, recalling his years at the National School of Drama (NSD) and the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII). Although he completed acting courses at both institutions, he said some of his biggest lessons came from the students he later taught.

According to Shah, teaching helped shape him as an actor, and he continues to hold deep respect and affection for his students. He said he remembers them with gratitude and offers them his blessings every day, especially on Teacher’s Day.

Compares masked personnel to American ICE agents

Expressing his anger over the reported crackdown, Shah said the people carrying out the action reminded him of immigration enforcement officers in the United States.

He said it was painful to watch young protesters being treated with cruelty by “goons” wearing masks and carrying sticks, adding that they reminded him of American ICE agents.

The comparison was one of the strongest parts of his statement, reflecting his criticism of the handling of the demonstrations.

Message to young protesters: Do not give up

Shah urged the protesters not to lose hope despite the difficult situation. He encouraged them to continue their struggle, saying they were not alone and had the support of many people across the country.

He also appealed to the public to think about the future of their own children and warned that similar situations could affect anyone someday.

The actor said he has always believed that the country’s future lies with its youth, adding that recent events have strengthened that belief even further. He assured the students that many people stand with them and support their movement.

Warning to the government

Before ending his message, Shah addressed the government directly.

He said he wanted the government to “remember everything,” without elaborating further, ending his statement with a brief but pointed remark.

Malayalam actor Parvathy Thiruvothu has hit back at BJP MP Kangana Ranaut after her comments on the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) protest outside Parliament. The exchange has triggered a fresh war of words on social media.

Kangana Ranaut spoke about the tense atmosphere inside Parliament during the CJP protest. She said the gates were closed and all parliamentarians were confined inside. According to her, none of them could move. She claimed many MPs feared a mob attack and were scared at one point during the protest.

Parvathy’s sharp reply

Reacting to this on Instagram, Parvathy questioned Kangana’s choice of words. She wrote that citizens and children of the country were the ones actually under attack by police, not the other way around. She asked when this so-called mob tried to attack Kangana. She also took a dig at Kangana’s eyewear, calling it “powerfully blinding.”

Background: The CJP protest

The protest took place on the first day of the Monsoon Session of Parliament. Thousands of protesters gathered at Jantar Mantar in Delhi before marching towards Parliament. The Cockroach Janta Party organised the “Chalo Sansad” march demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. The protest was linked to the alleged NEET-UG paper leak and student suicides connected to the exam.

Delhi Police stopped the protesters from advancing further towards Parliament. Officers used baton charges and fired tear gas shells towards the crowd. Authorities also detained several protesters.

Speaking to media after the incident, Kangana praised Delhi Police for acting as shield and preventing harm to those inside Parliament. She described mood among MPs as fearful.

Context of past exchanges

This is not the first time Kangana Ranaut’s comments on protests have drawn public criticism. She has previously faced backlash and legal complaints over remarks made during the farmers’ protests even including allegations of derogatory comments against the Sikh community and claims of protests being linked to separatist movements.

The Delhi Police have registered 10 FIRs in connection with violence and other incidents linked to the Cockroach Janta Party’s (CJP) ‘Sansad Chalo’ protest, even as they denied claims circulating on social media that fresh stone-pelting or police action took place at Jantar Mantar on Tuesday.

In a post on X, the Deputy Commissioner of Police (New Delhi) said videos claiming incidents of stone-pelting and police action on Tuesday were “false and misleading”.

“There are various videos circulating on social media claiming incidents of stone pelting and police action today. These claims are false and misleading. No such incident has taken place today,” Delhi Police said, urging people to rely only on official sources for authentic information.

The clarification came as protesters continued their sit-in at Jantar Mantar a day after clashes broke out during the CJP’s march towards Parliament over demands that included the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over alleged examination irregularities.

Delhi Police register 10 FIRs across five police stations

According to police officials, Delhi Police have registered 10 FIRs across multiple police stations in the New Delhi district.

Four FIRs were registered at Parliament Street police station, three at Connaught Place police station, and one each at Mandir Marg, Barakhamba Road and Kartavya Path police stations.

Police said the cases relate to different incidents reported during the protests and investigations are continuing.

One FIR concerns the alleged life-threatening attack on a Rapid Action Force (RAF) jawan during Monday’s protest.

Another relates to the alleged flying of a drone without permission in the New Delhi district during the Parliament session.

Police have also registered cases alleging conspiracy, obstruction of government work, assault on police personnel and damage to public property.

The FIRs invoke provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), the Arms Act and the Prevention of Damage to Public Property (PDPP) Act.

Police continue probe into protest violence

Delhi Police said protesters allegedly displayed “unruly, aggressive and violent behaviour” during Monday’s demonstration despite repeated warnings and prohibitory orders being in force.

Police are examining more than 250 videos to identify those involved and to determine whether the violence was part of a pre-planned conspiracy.

On Monday, Delhi Police also released footage that they said showed stone-pelting in the Connaught Place area and appealed to protesters to maintain peace and cooperate with law enforcement agencies.

CJP protest continues at Jantar Mantar

The protest resumed at Jantar Mantar on Tuesday after demonstrators returned to the site following the removal of tents and the protest stage by security personnel.

A heavy deployment of Delhi Police and Rapid Action Force personnel remained at the venue.

CJP spokesperson Ashutosh Ranka said the agitation would continue until the party’s demand for Dharmendra Pradhan’s resignation was met.

He alleged that several protesters, including students and volunteers, were injured during Monday’s clashes and claimed that women protesters, including Geetanjali J Angmo, wife of activist Sonam Wangchuk, were mistreated.

Delhi Police, however, maintained that no fresh incident of stone-pelting or police action took place on Tuesday and appealed to the public not to circulate unverified videos on social media.

Acharya Balkrishna of Patanjali Ayurved has shared an important health tip on social media. He explained why the body needs enough water during the rainy season.

According to Acharya Balkrishna, the weather stays cool during the monsoon. Because of this, people feel less thirsty. Many forget to drink water on time. As a result, the body can run low on water. This leads to weakness and tiredness.

The reason behind dehydration

Health experts say that in summer, heavy sweating triggers a strong thirst response. But in the monsoon, humidity and cooler air delay the brain’s thirst signal. Because of this, the body keeps losing water without a person even realising it.

Acharya Balkrishna has advised drinking at least 8 to 10 glasses of water every day. This amount is considered necessary for the body’s normal functioning. Water carries nutrients to every part of the body. It also keeps the digestive system working smoothly.

The medical field also agrees that water helps regulate body temperature. It lubricates the joints and helps flush out toxins from the body.

Risk of diseases from dirty water

Acharya Balkrishna has warned against drinking dirty water during the monsoon. He said that contaminated water can cause diseases like jaundice and typhoid.

Health department data also shows that waterborne disease cases rise during the monsoon months. Rainwater often mixes with drain and sewer water. This contaminates drinking water sources. As a result, diseases like cholera, diarrhoea and jaundice spread quickly.

In jaundice, the skin and eyes start turning yellow. Appetite drops and tiredness stays. In typhoid, symptoms include high fever, stomach pain and weakness. Both diseases spread through contaminated water and food.

Precautions to take

Doctors recommend always drinking boiled or filtered water during the rainy season. Water left open or served with street food should be avoided. Washing hands often with clean water and soap is also important.

Do not let water collect near your home, as this increases the risk of mosquitoes as well as water contamination. Keep drinking water covered and clean water tanks at regular intervals.

At least 10 people were killed after a fire tore through an illegally operated firecracker factory in Ahmedabad’s Ramol area, police said on Tuesday.

According to police, the factory had earlier been sealed after its licence expired on March 31, 2026. Investigators said the premises were allegedly reopened without permission, leading to the fatal accident.

Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Mayur Patil said the unit had been shut down by authorities after its licence lapsed.

“A fire broke out at an illegal firecracker factory in the Ramol area, resulting in the deaths of 10 people. We had previously shut down the factory because its licence had expired on March 31, 2026, and the premises had been sealed. However, taking advantage of the police being occupied with security arrangements for the Rath Yatra, they attempted to reopen the illegal factory. This led to an accident and the loss of 10 lives,” Patil said.

#WATCH | Ahmedabad, Gujarat | DCP Mayur Patil says, “A fire broke out at an illegal firecracker factory in the Ramol area, resulting in the deaths of 10 people. We had previously shut down the factory because its license had expired on March 31, 2026, and the premises had been… pic.twitter.com/cR805xZXBO

— ANI (@ANI) July 22, 2026

Drive against illegal factories intensified

Following the incident, police said action against unauthorised industrial units with expired licences has been stepped up.

Patil urged landowners to ensure that factories operating on their properties possess valid licences and said authorities have begun demolition drives against illegal establishments.

“To prevent such incidents in the future, we have appealed to landowners to take action regarding any factories on their land that hold expired licences. Landowners are now carrying out demolition actions against such operators. Arrangements have been put in place by the police and the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation,” he said.

Police and civic officials are monitoring the demolition of unauthorised structures in the area.

An investigation into the fire is underway.

(With inputs from ANI)