Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, who was sitting on a protest outside Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s residence over alleged police brutality against students during yesterday’s march to Parliament, was forcibly removed from the protest site.

The police also removed other Congress leaders who were staging the protest against the crackdown on Cockroach Janata Party protesters.

The action follows government’s unsuccessful efforts to convince the Congress leader to end his protest.

Earlier, Union Minister of State Dr Jitendra Singh met Rahul at dharna site, and informed him that his demand for a Parliament discussion on NEET issue has been accepted.

However, according to Singh, Rahul backtracked and sought assurance for Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan’s resignation.

“Rahul Gandhi put forward the demand that if the government agrees to discuss in Parliament all issues related to NEET and the associated movement, he would immediately end his sit-in. Within a few moments, after taking permission from the government’s top leadership, Shri Rahul Gandhi was assured that his demand has been accepted, and the government is ready to discuss in Parliament all issues related to NEET and the associated movement,” Singh said.

However, when Rahul was told that the government had agreed to his demand, he allegedly sought assurance for the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.

“He said that now I have two demands: discussion in Parliament and the resignation of the Union Education Minister,” Singh said.

According to Singh, when Rahul was reminded that earlier he had only demanded discussion, the Congress leader allegedly said that his demands have changed, prompting the police to use force and remove the Congress leaders.

West Bengal Chief minister Suvendu Adhikari flagged off 50 new AC buses at Kolkata’s Kasba on Tuesday, and shared plans to roll out around 1000 environment friendly vehicles in the state in the next one year.

“To keep the city and the state and the city of Kolkata safe, clean and environment friendly, procurement of more and more electric and CNG vehicles are being prioritized. During a recent meeting of the state Urban Development and Municipal affairs Department and Union minister of Housing and Urban Affairs Manohar Lal Khattar, discussions have been held about rolling out additional electric buses on the ratio of 60:40 in which 40 percent is to be borne by the state government,” Adhikari said.

“Today we rolled out 50 environment friendly buses including 43 CNG and seven electric run. The transport minister has submitted a proposal for 400 buses needed urgently and it is likely to be sanctioned. Over the next one year, we will introduce 1000 additional buses which will be environment friendly,” he added.

Speaking about developing waterways in the state, “Apart from this, the jetties under the Transport Department would be revamped. As a part of Destination Sundarbans, luxurious boats would be introduced.”

The newly launched 50 buses are to be operated on a total of 24 routes, including both new and old ones. Few routes that were operational during Adhikari’s tenure as the state’s Transport Minister were closed subsequently.

Sources in the Bengal Transport Department mentioned that the 50 eco-friendly buses are to be operated on routes including AC 37, Barasat to Garia, AC 47, Santragachi to Airport, AC 9, New Town to Esplanade, AC 9B, New Town to Behala, AC 12, New Town to Howrah, EB 14, Eco Park/New Town to Esplanade, among other.

A burger that was reportedly never even eaten has ended up consuming a political career. In a twist few could have predicted, “Burger Gate” has claimed its first political casualty, with the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) on Tuesday showing spokesperson Vijeta Dahiya the door after a viral fast-food stop overshadowed the party’s agitation, removing him from his post over what it called his “deeply insensitive” conduct.

In a strongly worded statement issued on Tuesday, the CJP announced Dahiya’s removal, calling his conduct “deeply insensitive” and inconsistent with the movement’s principles.

“We strongly condemn the deeply insensitive actions of our spokesperson Vijeta Dahiya, whose videos surfaced while peaceful protesters and our team were facing brutal police violence. Such conduct is unacceptable, shows a complete lack of judgment, and is wholly inconsistent with the values and principles of our movement. In response, we are removing Vijeta Dahiya as spokesperson of the Cockroach Janta Party and relieving him of all official duties,” the party said.

The controversy erupted after a video widely circulated on social media appeared to show Dahiya near a fast-food outlet close to Jantar Mantar shortly after the CJP’s ‘Chalo Sansad’ march turned violent as protesters attempted to move towards Parliament.

In the video, the person recording confronts Dahiya, accusing him of abandoning fellow protesters at a time when they were allegedly being lathi-charged by police. “The protesters are being beaten with sticks, and you’re roaming around here? What kind of support is this?” the person is heard asking in Hindi.

Dahiya initially ignored the questions and continued walking before briefly stopping to respond, “You’re behaving like a joke.”

The footage quickly went viral, triggering widespread criticism online, with many questioning the optics of a senior party functionary appearing to be taking a food break while protesters were engaged in confrontations with security personnel.

Responding to the backlash, Dahiya defended himself in a video message, saying the outrage over a burger was misplaced and ignored the sacrifices made by activists participating in the protest. “Why did I eat a burger? This is a big issue today. So why does anyone eat a burger? He is hungry. He wants to eat a burger. That’s it. I was also very hungry. And when you eat something good, your mind feels good,” he said.

He added that critics had ignored the fact that he and several other protesters had been working continuously without adequate rest.”What people don’t see is that I haven’t slept for two nights, just like many others participating in the protest,” he said.

“A person who is just eating and drinking, who has no interest in social issues or politics, nobody questions him for eating a burger. But if a protester, who is fighting for the country’s issues, eats a burger, suddenly everyone has a problem,” he said.

Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh on Tuesday accused Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, of backtracking from his words after the government assured him of a Parliament discussion on the NEET issue.

In a lengthy social media post, Singh said that he went to meet Rahul Gandhi and other senior leaders to convince them to end their sit-in outside the residence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

“Rahul Gandhi put forward the demand that if the government agrees to discuss in Parliament all issues related to NEET and the associated movement, he would immediately end his sit-in. Within a few moments, after taking permission from the government’s top leadership, Shri Rahul Gandhi was assured that his demand has been accepted, and the government is ready to discuss in Parliament all issues related to NEET and the associated movement,” Singh said.

However, when Rahul was told that the government had agreed to his demand, he allegedly sought assurance for the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.

“He said that now I have two demands: discussion in Parliament and the resignation of the Union Education Minister,” Singh said.

According to Singh, when Rahul was reminded that earlier he had only demanded discussion, the Congress leader allegedly said that his demands have changed.

“When an attempt was made to humbly explain to him that for a senior leader like him to backtrack from his word so quickly does not befit him, he said that it is his prerogative. When the Home Secretary tried to explain that this site is not suitable for a sit-in, his response was that it is also his prerogative to sit wherever he wants,” Singh said.

The minister further asserted that for a Leader of the Opposition to go back on his word is unfortunate and contrary to every norm of democracy.

He reiterated that the government is ready to discuss in Parliament all issues related to NEET and the associated movement.

However, Singh added, the Congress Party has not given any notice to date for a formal discussion on this serious matter as per rules. “Rahul Gandhi’s behavior does not align with the principles of democracy,” he concluded.

Congress MPs, led by Rahul Gandhi, staged a sit-in outside PM Modi’s residence over alleged police brutality against student protesters during yesterday’s march to Parliament demanding the resignation of Dharmendra Pradhan.

After the government’s efforts to convince the Congress leaders failed, police forcibly removed Rahul Gandhi and other Congress leaders.

The Tourism Ministry has sanctioned 117 projects worth Rs 5,756.62 crore to develop tourism infrastructure over the last two years.

“The Ministry of Tourism has undertaken several initiatives during the last two years to promote tourism through infrastructure development, digital promotion and expansion of basic amenities across the country,” Tourism Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat said in a written reply to a question in the Lok Sabha on Monday.

The Ministry provides Central Financial Assistance to state governments and Union Territory Administrations for developing tourism infrastructure and augmenting basic amenities under the schemes: Swadesh Darshan 2.0, Challenge Based Destination Development, Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual Heritage Augmentation Drive (PRASHAD), Assistance to Central Agencies for Tourism Infrastructure Development and Dharti Aaba Janjatiya Gram Utkarsh Abhiyan (DA JUGA), subject to scheme guidelines and fund availability.

Further, under the Government of India initiative Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment – Development of Iconic Tourist Centres to Global Scale, financial assistance was provided to States during 2024-25 for tourism projects.

“In the last two years, the Ministry has sanctioned 117 projects worth Rs. 5756.62 crore under the afore-mentioned Schemes,” Shekhawat said.

The Ministry promotes tourism through the Incredible India Digital Platform, comprising the website and mobile application, which serves as a one-stop digital interface for domestic and international travellers.

The revamped portal, launched in September 2024, is available in multiple languages and offers curated travel content, essential information, and seamless booking of flights, hotels, cabs, buses, and ASI monument tickets through partnerships with Online Travel Agents (OTAs) and other stakeholders.

Promotion is further supported through official social media platforms, digital campaigns, and collaborations with social media influencers.

The Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat (EBSB) initiative is implemented by the Ministry of Education, Government of India, the nodal Ministry for the EBSB. However, under the EBSB initiative, the Ministry of Tourism is also implementing several programmes through tourism events and institutional activities.

The Ministry organises its flagship event Bharat Parv every year as part of the Republic Day celebrations with participation from all States and Union Territories to showcase India’s cultural heritage, tourism potential and diverse traditions.
Under this initiative, the Ministry also participated in Rashtriya Ekta Diwas 2025 at Ekta Nagar, Gujarat.

Further, the Ministry’s Central Autonomous Bodies, including 21 Institutes of Hotel Management (IHMs), the Indian Institute of Tourism and Travel Management (IITTM), the Indian Culinary Institute (ICI) and India Tourism Offices regularly organise student exchange programmes, familiarisation visits, tour operator networking sessions, cultural programmes, regional cuisine festivals, language-learning activities and other activities highlighting the culture, traditions, cuisine and heritage of paired states and Union Territories under the EBSB initiative.

These initiatives promote cultural tourism, foster people-to-people connect, strengthen national integration and reinforce the spirit of national pride.

Delhi is set to witness continued monsoon activity over the next few days, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasting generally cloudy skies, intermittent light to moderate rainfall and gusty winds, even as temperatures remain below the seasonal average.

The prevailing weather is being influenced by an active monsoon trough stretching from Sri Ganganagar to the northwest Bay of Bengal, along with an upper air cyclonic circulation over Haryana and its adjoining areas.

Another cyclonic circulation over southwest Rajasthan and a trough extending from the west-central Bay of Bengal to the northeast Arabian Sea are also contributing to favourable conditions for rainfall across the National Capital Region.

Over the past 24 hours, light to moderate rain accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning was recorded at most places across Delhi, leading to a drop in both daytime and night-time temperatures. Maximum temperatures fell by 1-2 degrees Celsius while minimum temperatures declined by 1-3 degrees Celsius.

At Safdarjung, the city’s base weather station, the maximum temperature settled at 31.2 degrees Celsius, nearly 3.7 degrees below normal, while the minimum was 25.6 degrees Celsius, 1.7 degrees below normal. The station recorded 10.6 mm of rainfall till 8.30 am, followed by another 0.6 mm during the day. Humidity remained extremely high, ranging between 81 and 100 per cent.

Rainfall was reported across several parts of the city, with Pusa receiving 20 mm, Ridge 18.6 mm, Ayanagar 17.4 mm, Palam 15 mm, and Lodhi Road 12.2 mm during the 24-hour period ending Tuesday morning.

According to the IMD it is likely to remain cloudy with intermittent very light to light rain at many places and moderate rain at a few locations. Strong surface winds of 20-30 kmph, gusting up to 40 kmph, are expected during the evening and night.

On Wednesday (July 22), Delhi is expected to record a maximum temperature between 31 and 33 degrees Celsius and a minimum of 24 to 26 degrees Celsius. The forecast indicates one or two spells of light rain at many places, moderate showers at isolated locations, and another spell of rain during the evening. Gusty winds reaching 40 kmph may occur from early morning till noon.

Light rain is likely to continue on July 23 and 24, with cloudy skies dominating. Rain activity is expected to weaken from July 25 onward, although overcast conditions are likely to persist. Maximum temperatures are forecast to gradually rise to 33-35 degrees Celsius by the weekend, but the IMD has said there will be no significant change in daytime temperatures over the next seven days.

The West Bengal government on Tuesday launched the ‘Bidyut Prahari’ mobile application, enabling citizens to report electricity theft, illegal hooking and hazardous power infrastructure directly to the state power distribution company.

Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari launched the app at Vidyut Bhavan in Kolkata’s Salt Lake, saying it would help facilitate faster action on complaints and improve monitoring of reported cases.

The app allows users to report incidents of electricity theft and illegal hooking by uploading photographs and sharing the geographical coordinates of the location. Complaints related to damaged electrical equipment, dangerous power lines and other infrastructure-related hazards can also be lodged through the platform.

Adhikari said electricity theft must be brought down to zero and called for a strict approach towards outstanding electricity bills from commercial establishments.

“Electricity theft must be brought down to zero. There will be a zero-tolerance policy for unpaid bills in factories. Electricity bills remain pending for many commercial buildings. Recover the outstanding bills and issue notices. However, be compassionate when dealing with domestic cases. Decisions should be made based on past records,” he said.

The app will also allow consumers to provide feedback and report other electricity-related service issues. Users will be able to track the status of their complaints through the platform.

Officials said the identity of people reporting electricity theft or illegal hooking would be kept confidential. The application will be monitored round the clock to facilitate prompt action on complaints.

As part of the nationwide Har Ghar Tiranga Campaign ahead of the 79th Independence Day of India, the Department of Youth Affairs, through MY Bharat, has launched the National Flag of India Quiz 2026 on the MY Bharat Portal.

“The quiz will remain open until August 15, providing young citizens across the country with an engaging opportunity to deepen their understanding of the National Flag and its enduring significance,” the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports said on Tuesday.

The initiative builds upon the overwhelming response received to the National Flag Quiz organised last year. Through this edition, MY Bharat aims to promote awareness among youth about the history, evolution, significance and dignity of the National Flag of India while fostering patriotism, constitutional values and greater engagement with the MY Bharat platform.

The quiz is open to all registered users of the MY Bharat Portal. It consists of 20 multiple-choice questions to be completed within 10 minutes and is available in all languages supported on the portal through Bhashini. Each registered user can attempt the quiz once. Every correct answer carries one mark, with no negative marking.

Participants will answer questions covering the evolution and history of the National Flag, the contributions of eminent personalities associated with its development, constitutional provisions relating to the Tricolour, the Flag Code of India, 2002, the Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act, 1971, and other important facts related to India’s national symbols.

While all registered users are eligible to participate and receive an e-certificate upon successful completion of the quiz, registered users in the age group of 21-29 years will be eligible for selection as winners, subject to fulfilment of the prescribed conditions.

Winners will be chosen through a computer-based randomisation process from among the top-scoring eligible participants and may be provided an opportunity to visit India’s border areas or other suitable locations.

The National Flag of India Quiz forms part of MY Bharat’s continued efforts to inspire informed and active citizenship among young people by combining digital learning with nation-building initiatives. The Department has urged youth from across the country to participate in large numbers and celebrate the spirit of the Tiranga through this unique knowledge-based initiative.

The quiz can be accessed on the MY Bharat Portal and will remain live until August 15.

Rajya Sabha MP Swati Maliwal on Tuesday slammed AAP national convenor Arvind Kejriwal and Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann over the alleged “massive scam” that has taken place in the pharmacy officer recruitment exam in Punjab.

“A massive scam has taken place in the pharmacy officer recruitment exam in Punjab, which has ruined the future of thousands of students… Several students were caught cheating in the exam using pen cameras and Bluetooth devices. Children were being made to pass the exam for lakhs of rupees,” Maliwal wrote on X.

She stated that Kejriwal and Mann have not issued a statement in this regard.

“So far, neither Arvind Kejriwal nor Bhagwant Mann has issued a single statement, nor has any action been taken. Earlier, when students were protesting for jobs, there was a brutal lathi charge on the youth in Punjab. Arvind Kejriwal, who gives provocative speeches every day about turning India into Nepal, has no concern for the students. It’s all deception and trickery,” she added.

SHOCKING : पंजाब में pharmacy officer recruitment exam में बहुत बड़ा scam हुआ जिससे हज़ारों छात्रों का भविष्य ख़राब हुआ है ‼️

Exam में कई छात्र pen cameras और bluetooth device के सहारे चीटिंग करते पकड़े गए। लाखों रुपये लेकर बच्चों को exam पास करवाया जा रहा था।

अब तक केजरीवाल और…

— Swati Maliwal (@SwatiJaiHind) July 21, 2026

This comes days after Punjab Police dismantled an inter-state cheating racket operating during the pharmacy officer recruitment examination.

As per officials, police detained seven key conspirators of the racket along with 28 candidates, besides seizing 27 battery-operated wireless devices used for cheating.

During the examination, police reportedly detected the use of pen cameras and real-time dictation. The exam centres were set up at Faridkot and Ferozepur.

In a statement, police said that a candidate, identified as Ayush in Ferozepur, allegedly used a concealed pen camera to scan the question paper. It was later sent to an accomplice, Sajan, in Bhiwani, Haryana, via WhatsApp.

Sajan then sent it to another operative of the racket, Deepak, who was stationed at a makeshift control room inside the residence of Gurmeet Singh in Faridkot’s Society Nagar.

From this location, key accused Manjit Singh and Deepak are believed to have dictated the answers in real-time via wireless equipment to several candidates sitting inside the exam halls, the statement added.

SAD condemns

Sukhbir Singh Badal, chief of the Shiromani Akali Dal, hit out at Punjab’s AAP government on Tuesday, blaming it for the leaking of exam papers in the state. At the same time, he called on the central government to sit down with protesting students and resolve their concerns through talks rather than confrontation. Talking to reporters in Amritsar, Badal slammed the police response used to stop students from marching toward Parliament a day earlier, and pressed the Centre to handle the situation with a softer, more accommodating touch.

He didn’t spare Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann either, accusing him of picking and choosing when to back student causes. According to Badal, Mann has stayed silent on paper leaks tied to recruitment drives within Punjab itself, along with alleged irregularities in exams conducted by the Punjab Subordinate Services Selection Board, and a cheating scandal linked to the pharmacy officer recruitment test.

Hockey India has named a 20-member squad for the FIH Hockey World Cup in Belgium and the Netherlands, with Harmanpreet Singh set to lead India’s bid to end a 50-year wait for the title.

The World Cup will be held from August 15 to 30, with India placed in Pool D alongside England, Pakistan and Wales. All of India’s group-stage matches will be played in Amstelveen, Netherlands.

Experienced midfielder Manpreet Singh, India’s most-capped men’s international, will provide leadership in a squad that combines seasoned players with a number of promising youngsters.
The goalkeeping duties will be shared by Mohith HS and Suraj Karkera. The defensive unit features Harmanpreet Singh, Jarmanpreet Singh, Amit Rohidas, Jugraj Singh, Sanjay, Sumit and Yashdeep Siwach.

In midfield, Manpreet will be joined by Hardik Singh, Vivek Sagar Prasad, Nilakanta Sharma, Rajinder Singh and Aditya Arjun Lalage. The forward line comprises Mandeep Singh, Dilpreet Singh, Abhishek, Sukhjeet Singh and Shilanand Lakra.

Head coach Craig Fulton said the squad has the right balance to challenge for the title and believes the players have earned their places through consistent performances.

“This is a well-balanced squad, the right mix of tournament experience and in-form youth who’ve earned their spot through performance, not reputation,” Fulton said.

India will open their campaign against Wales on August 15 before facing England on August 17. The group stage concludes with the much-anticipated clash against Pakistan on August 19.

Fulton said the team remains focused on taking the tournament one game at a time.
“Press, counter, perform’ isn’t just our tactical identity; it’s how this group trains and thinks together every single day. We are not getting ahead of ourselves; one game at a time, all in, is the mentality we’re taking into every match,” he added.

India have a rich history in the Hockey World Cup, winning bronze in 1971, silver in 1973 and lifting their only title in 1975. However, they have not reached the podium since that triumph five decades ago.

Fulton believes this squad has an opportunity to end that long wait.
“Fifty years since 1975 (World Cup win), this group has a chance to write its own chapter in Indian hockey history, and we are really excited about it,” he concluded.

Squad:
Goalkeepers: Mohith HS, Suraj Karkera
Defenders: Jarmanpreet Singh, Harmanpreet Singh (c), Amit Rohidas, Jugraj Singh, Sanjay, Sumit, Yashdeep Siwach
Midfielders: Rajinder Singh, Aditya Arjun Lalage, Hardik Singh, Manpreet Singh, Nilakanta Sharma, Vivek Sagar Prasad
Forwards: Dilpreet Singh, Shilanand Lakra, Sukhjeet Singh, Mandeep Singh, Abhishek

Fast bowler Ashok Sharma says wearing the India jersey has been a lifelong dream as he prepares for a possible international debut in the upcoming T20I series against Zimbabwe. The three-match series begins on Thursday in Harare, where the youngster is hoping to make the most of his maiden senior India call-up.

Ashok said his immediate focus is simply on representing the country and staying true to the routines that have helped him reach this stage.

“My first target will be to wear the India jersey. I am waiting for that moment to wear that jersey and represent my nation. I have waited for this for a long time. So that will be the first thing. The second thing is that I will keep doing what I know best. Whatever I have done till now- the hard work in domestic cricket, the preparation and the routines- I will just keep following that. I will stick to my strengths and not try anything extra,” he told JioStar.

The 22-year-old said he now wants to make a strong impression if he gets an opportunity during the tour and hopes it will eventually pave the way for a place in India’s Test side.

“Now that I am in the squad for the series against Zimbabwe, my next target will be to take as many wickets as possible and try to play as many matches as I can. I want to make this opportunity count. My next goal after that will be to play red-ball cricket for India as soon as possible,” he added.

Before his senior call-up, Ashok was drafted into the India A squad for the tour of Sri Lanka after Yudhvir Singh suffered an injury. The experience gave him the chance to train with some of the country’s best young cricketers and prepare for the next step.

Ashok credits Siraj for his development

Ashok also acknowledged the role senior India pacer Mohammed Siraj has played in his development during their time together at Gujarat Titans. He said he regularly sought advice from Siraj in the dressing room and during practice sessions, asking him about handling pressure, planning dismissals and building spells.

“I had a lot of talks with Siraj bhaiya as well. Whenever we were in the dressing room or bowling together in the nets, I would keep asking him questions throughout the day. I would ask him, ‘Bhaiya, when you play a match, how much pressure do you feel? What do you think before bowling a delivery? If I have to bowl to someone, how should I set him up?’ I would discuss all these things with him,” he said.

Ashok added that Siraj was always willing to share his experience and offer technical advice.

“Siraj bhaiya would explain everything to me very well. He would stand with me and watch two or three of my deliveries. Then he would tell me, ‘Do this, make this change, try this.’ So I learned a lot from him. I have carried all those learnings with me. Whenever I get time to practice in Jaipur, I focus on those things and try to do them even better,” he added.

Besides Ashok, India’s T20I squad for the tour of Zimbabwe features several other exciting new faces, including left-arm spinner Harsh Dubey, pacer Yash Thakur and wicket-keeper Prabhsimran Singh. Further, batter Rinku Singh and pacer Mayank Yadav make a comeback to the Shreyas Iyer-led T20I squad.

Former India fast bowler and Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) president Venkatesh Prasad has backed Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli to continue playing until the 2027 ODI World Cup, insisting the veteran duo have earned the right to decide when to call time on their careers.

Speaking in Bengaluru, Prasad said neither player should be forced into retirement amid growing speculation over their future with the Indian team.

‘They have earned that freedom’: Venkatesh Prasad

“One hundred per cent. I have always said that. They should be given that freedom. They have earned the freedom to take a call whenever they want to retire from the game. I don’t think anybody should be forcing them to take that call,” Prasad said.

He pointed to Rohit’s match-winning century at Lord’s as proof that the Indian captain still has plenty to offer.

“Sunday’s innings at Lord’s, where he became the first Indian cricketer to score an ODI hundred at Lord’s, in itself shows that he still has everything. It is important to have both Virat and Rohit till the end of the World Cup,” he added.

Rohit dismisses retirement talk

Prasad’s comments came a day after Rohit emphatically silenced retirement speculation with a brilliant 138 off 110 balls in the third ODI against England at Lord’s.

Despite India’s 2-1 series defeat, the skipper made it clear that outside noise would not affect his focus.

“My job is with the bat. Come and play, represent my country, represent the team. That’s what I’ve been told to do since I made my debut. So that’s what I’m going to do,” Rohit said in a video shared by the BCCI.

The 39-year-old added that criticism has always been part of his career.

“What matters is what I do on the field, try to contribute to the success of the team. That’s all my focus is right now. And let the noise be there. If there’s no noise, there’s no fun.”

Rohit’s record-breaking knock in vain

Rohit’s 138, featuring 17 fours and five sixes, made him the first Indian batter to score an ODI century at Lord’s. It was also the highest individual ODI score by an Indian against England in England, surpassing his own unbeaten 137 at Trent Bridge in 2018.

India appeared well on course in their chase of 388 after Rohit added 147 for the opening wicket with Shubman Gill and 113 with Virat Kohli. Gill made 77, while Kohli followed up his 65 in the previous ODI with a fluent 74.

However, the visitors collapsed from 304/2 to be bowled out 27 runs short as England sealed the series.

Ben Duckett starred with 141, while Jacob Bethell (91), Joe Root (74 not out) and Jos Buttler (41 not out) powered England to 387/3 before Sam Curran claimed four wickets to wrap up the victory.

With both Rohit and Kohli now playing only the ODI format for India, the experienced pair are expected to return for the three-match home ODI series against the West Indies, beginning on September 27.

At least 12 people were killed after a section of the under-construction Head Race Tunnel (HRT) of the NHPC Teesta Stage-VI Hydroelectric Project collapsed at Samardung, Jholungey, in Sikkim’s Namchi district on Monday afternoon. Rescue operations continued through Tuesday amid fears that the death toll could rise further.

According to officials, the tunnel collapse was followed by a suspected methane gas leak, filling the tunnel with dense fumes and toxic gases. Twenty-five workers were trapped inside after the incident, while two others managed to escape.

Rescue teams initially brought out 16 workers alive after hours of strenuous efforts on Monday night. They were admitted to hospitals for treatment. Since the early hours of Tuesday, rescuers have recovered 11 bodies, eight of which have been identified.

Namchi District Superintendent of Police Sonam D Bhutia said several workers were still trapped and the death toll was likely to increase. A member of the specialised rescue team from Coal India told reporters that eight more (dead) persons were believed to be inside the tunnel but declined to comment further, saying, “Let us carry out the rescue operations.”

According to Namchi District Police, 10 bodies had been recovered by 9.30 a.m. on Tuesday. The deceased were identified as Bolo Oraon, Gora Oraon and Bikesar Oraon of Jalpaiguri in West Bengal; Yasohal of Pathankot, Punjab; Vikey Rawat of Dehradun, Uttarakhand; Babul Borodalai of Assam; and Lakpa Dorjee Tamang of Katang in Namchi district. Three unidentified bodies were sent to Singtam District Hospital and STNM Hospital for identification and legal formalities. Another body was recovered later, taking the death toll to 11.

Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang (Golay) and Governor Om Prakash Mathur visited the accident site and reviewed the rescue operation with NHPC officials.

Addressing reporters, the Chief Minister said the tunnel collapsed around lunchtime on Monday. According to preliminary information, 27 workers were inside the tunnel when the accident occurred. Two escaped safely, while 25 remained trapped.

He said personnel from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), Sikkim Police, Fire and Emergency Services, district administration and NHPC were jointly carrying out the rescue operation, with additional support from Central and State agencies.

A specialised team from the Directorate General of Mines Safety (DGMS) has also reached the site to assess the tunnel conditions. The exact cause of the accident has not yet been established, although methane gas is suspected to have triggered the disaster.

The Chief Minister announced the constitution of a high-level inquiry committee to investigate the incident. He said strict action would be taken if negligence by any agency or individual was established.

The Sikkim Government has announced an ex-gratia of Rs 4 lakh for the next of kin of each deceased worker and Rs 50,000 for every injured worker.

Mr Tamang also said Prime Minister Narendra Modi had spoken to him over the phone and assured the State Government of all possible assistance. “Our first priority is to complete the rescue operation and save the trapped workers,” he said.

SP Sonam D. Bhutia said heavy overnight rain caused water to enter the tunnel, hampering rescue efforts. Operations resumed after the water was pumped out around midnight. She added that specialist hazardous gas and chemical response teams from Asansol and Durgapur were on their way to assist investigators and rescuers.

A senior rescue official said the collapse occurred nearly 1.5 km inside the tunnel. The presence of toxic gases, including carbon monoxide, made rescue operations extremely challenging and reduced the chances of survival for those trapped.

Namchi District Information Officer Dipti Pradhan continued to issue periodic updates on the rescue operation, while authorities shifted the recovered bodies to Singtam District Hospital, STNM Hospital in Gangtok and Namchi District Hospital for post-mortem examinations and other legal formalities.

The rescue operation is being jointly conducted by NHPC, the Namchi district administration, NDRF, SDRF, Sikkim Police, Fire and Emergency Services, the Health Department and other line departments. The Sikkim State Disaster Management Authority (SSDMA) is closely monitoring the situation.

In a press release, NHPC said the accident occurred at 1.04 p.m. on Monday when a sudden burst of suspected methane gas trapped within the rock triggered an explosion inside the under-construction Head Race Tunnel, generating dense fumes and toxic gases.

The company said emergency response protocols were activated immediately and rescue operations were launched in coordination with the district administration, NDRF, SDRF, DGMS and other agencies. NHPC said its top management had reached the site and that a detailed investigation would be conducted to determine the exact cause of the accident.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union home minister Amit Shah and West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari spoke to Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang over the phone and assured all possible assistance.

In a post on X, Mr Adhikari said he had personally spoken to the Sikkim Chief Minister to take stock of the situation, noting that several of the affected workers were believed to be from Jalpaiguri district in West Bengal. He said Minister Bishal Lama and the Darjeeling District Magistrate had been deputed to the site, while the West Bengal Home Secretary was maintaining constant contact with the Sikkim administration for updates on the rescue operation.

West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari on Tuesday ordered the power department to adopt a zero-tolerance approach towards power theft and to recover outstanding arrears from industrial and commercial consumers.

Adhikari who has the power department under his portfolio held a review meeting with senior power department officials at Vidyut Bhavan in Salt Lake.

The chief minister told officials to go “all out and adopt a zero tolerance on hooking and asked them not to fall for any political interference in department proceedings.”

“No MLA, MP or ruling BJP leader will be allowed to influence departmental decisions,” Adhikari said.

“Zero political intervention” and strict action against illegal power connections were among the key instructions issued by the chief minister, who asked officials to disconnect illegal connections and recover pending electricity dues without succumbing to political pressure.

Adhikari also called for a gradual expansion of smart meters, but said the rollout should be accompanied by an effective grievance redressal mechanism, dedicated helpline and online complaint system.

Adhikari said West Bengal was working towards adding around 5,000 MW of new thermal power generation capacity to strengthen the state’s electricity supply network and meet rising demand from industry and other sectors.

The Chief Minister stressed the importance of renewable energy and said the state would accelerate implementation of the Pradhan Mantri Surya Ghar scheme.

Adhikari said 2,303 schools had been brought under solar power initiatives and announced that solar power connections for 1,800 households would be switched on from Nabanna later in the day.

“Through these measures were not only want to ensure seamless electricity supply across the state but also take care of the fact that electricity bills do not burn a hole in people’s pockets,” Adhikari said.

He said the state would also consider additional financial assistance for Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe consumers to help them install rooftop solar systems.

Adhikari mentioned that future recruitment of engineers should be conducted through the Public Service Commission (PSC) to ensure transparency and prevent political interference. The recruitment process already underway, however, would continue.

“The state’s reputation has been severely tarnished over recruitment,” Adhikari said, referring to the teacher recruitment and municipal recruitment scandals. He said there should be no political interference in the appointment of highly skilled engineers.

“All recruitment to the power department will be done through PSC. This will ensure transparency and we will not allow anyone political persons to influence recruitment. The image of West Bengal and Bengalis has taken a beating and we need to improve on this on terms of recruitment,” Adhikari added.

He stressed that the Power Department must become more customer-friendly and efficient, while urging officials to speak freely about problems, proposals and reforms without fear.

The Chief Minister said he would try to visit Vidyut Bhavan once every month for a review, while the Minister of State would spend more time with the department and undertake regular review meetings and field visits.

Calling the Power Department an essential 24-hour service, Adhikari said even a minor lapse could have serious consequences.

Adhikari also asked the department to ensure that existing infrastructure was properly maintained while accelerating new projects, saying West Bengal’s power sector would have to keep pace with the growing demand for electricity from industry and other sectors.

The second day of the Monsoon Session witnessed a stormy start on Tuesday as proceedings in both the The second day of the Monsoon Session witnessed a stormy start on Tuesday as proceedings in both the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha were adjourned till 12 noon following sustained protests by Opposition members demanding immediate discussions on the alleged NEET-UG examination paper leak, alleged financial irregularities in Ram Mandir donations, bribery allegations and the alleged lathicharge on students protesting the paper leak issue on July 20.

Soon after both Houses assembled, Opposition MPs rose from their seats, raised slogans and demanded that the scheduled business be suspended to take up what they described as urgent issues of national importance. The protests intensified as several members trooped into the Well of the House despite repeated appeals from the presiding officers to maintain order.

In the Lok Sabha, Speaker Om Birla urged members to return to their seats and allow the House to function, reiterating that Parliament was the appropriate platform for debate and discussion. However, the continued sloganeering and disruptions left the Chair with little option but to adjourn the House till 12 noon.

The Rajya Sabha also witnessed noisy scenes, with Opposition members pressing for an immediate debate on the NEET-UG controversy, the alleged use of force against students protesting on July 20 and the allegations of financial irregularities in Ram Mandir donations. As members continued their protests, the Chair adjourned the Upper House till 12 noon.

The disruptions came a day after the Monsoon Session began amid sharp exchanges between the government and the Opposition. Opposition parties have been demanding detailed discussions on the alleged NEET-UG paper leak, arguing that it has affected the future of lakhs of students, while also seeking accountability over the alleged lathicharge on student protesters. They have also sought discussions on the allegations relating to Ram Mandir donations and other issues they say warrant the government’s response.

The government has maintained that it is prepared to discuss issues in accordance with parliamentary rules while appealing to the Opposition to allow both Houses to function and carry forward the scheduled legislative business. Proceedings in the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha are scheduled to resume at 12 noon. and the Rajya Sabha were adjourned till 12 noon following sustained protests by Opposition members demanding immediate discussions on the alleged NEET-UG examination paper leak, alleged financial irregularities in Ram Mandir donations, bribery allegations and the alleged lathicharge on students protesting the paper leak issue on July 20.

Soon after both Houses assembled, Opposition MPs rose from their seats, raised slogans and demanded that the scheduled business be suspended to take up what they described as urgent issues of national importance. The protests intensified as several members trooped into the Well of the House despite repeated appeals from the presiding officers to maintain order.

In the Lok Sabha, Speaker Om Birla urged members to return to their seats and allow the House to function, reiterating that Parliament was the appropriate platform for debate and discussion. However, the continued sloganeering and disruptions left the Chair with little option but to adjourn the House till 12 noon.

The Rajya Sabha also witnessed noisy scenes, with Opposition members pressing for an immediate debate on the NEET-UG controversy, the alleged use of force against students protesting on July 20 and the allegations of financial irregularities in Ram Mandir donations. As members continued their protests, the Chair adjourned the Upper House till 12 noon.

The disruptions came a day after the Monsoon Session began amid sharp exchanges between the government and the Opposition. Opposition parties have been demanding detailed discussions on the alleged NEET-UG paper leak, arguing that it has affected the future of lakhs of students, while also seeking accountability over the alleged lathicharge on student protesters. They have also sought discussions on the allegations relating to Ram Mandir donations and other issues they say warrant the government’s response.

The government has maintained that it is prepared to discuss issues in accordance with parliamentary rules while appealing to the Opposition to allow both Houses to function and carry forward the scheduled legislative business. Proceedings in the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha are scheduled to resume at 12 noon.

India on Tuesday conveyed to Russia its strong concern over the missile attack on commercial vessel MV Golden Leo when it was departing the port of Odisa in Ukraine in which at least four Indian nationals were killed.

‘’Today Russian Chargé d’Affaires, Mr. Vladimir Ladanov, was summoned to the Ministry of External Affairs. The Ministry conveyed India’s grave concerns and unequivocal condemnation of the attack on the commercial vessel MV Golden Leo on 19 July, which resulted in the tragic loss of four Indian lives, emphasising that such attacks undermine the safety, security, and stability of international maritime commerce,’’ the Ministry of External Affairs said in a statement.

The Russian Chargé d’Affaires was asked to convey India’s strong concerns to his authorities that the targeting of commercial shipping and the resulting loss of innocent civilian lives are unacceptable and must be avoided, the MEA added.

At the time of the incident, there were 17 crew members on board, including 5 Indian nationals. While Indian nationals lost their lives, one is hospitalised in a critical condition.

‘’Our Mission in Ukraine is closely monitoring the situation and is making every effort to extend all possible assistance to those affected. We extend our deepest condolences to the families of the deceased Indian nationals and wish the injured Indian national a speedy and full recovery,’’ the MEA added.

Uttar Pradesh Congress Committee President and former minister Ajay Rai has written to President Draupadi Murmu seeking her intervention in the alleged police use of force during a student and youth protest in New Delhi.

He also demanded the removal of the Union Education Minister from his Mr Rai stated that repressive action, instead of engaging with young people exercising their democratic rights, is contrary to democratic values.

According to a statement issued on Tuesday, Mr. Rai stated in his letter that the incidents of water cannons, lathicharge, and tear gas use during the student march from Jantar Mantar to Parliament are extremely worrying.

He alleged that photographs and videos circulated on social media and other platforms showed many security personnel without nameplates, while allegations have emerged that some people in civilian clothes were also involved in the action. He demanded an independent and impartial investigation into the matter.

The Congress state president stated that the leak of the NEET question paper, questions raised about the examination system, and complaints related to the re-NEET exam have caused deep dissatisfaction among students and youth across the country. He stated that at such a time, the government should adopt a path of dialogue, not the use of force.

In the letter, Ajay Rai claimed that opposition leader Rahul Gandhi and the Congress leadership have established dialogue with students and supported their demands.

Referring to the tenure of former Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh, he said that during that time, dialogue was the path adopted to resolve protests.

Mr. Rai demanded an independent investigation into the use of force during the Parliament March, an investigation into the role of security personnel without nameplates or alleged unauthorized persons, a transparent investigation into complaints related to NEET and other central examinations, and the fixing of responsibility for these matters.

UP Congress chief stated in the letter that the use of force against peaceful protests impacts India’s democratic image and that problems in a democracy should be resolved through dialogue.