Supreme Court Seeks Delhi Police Response on Bail Pleas in 2020 Riots Case
The Supreme Court has issued a notice to the Delhi Police regarding the bail petitions of activists Umar Khalid, Sharjeel Imam, and three others accused in the 2020 Delhi riots conspiracy case. The petitioners, who have been incarcerated for over five years under the stringent UAPA law, challenged a Delhi High Court order that had denied them bail. The apex court has listed the matter for its next hearing on October 7, marking a key development in the high-profile case.
Mysuru Dasara Festivities Inaugurated by Booker Prize Winner Banu Mushtaq
The renowned 11-day Mysuru Dasara, Karnataka's official 'state festival', commenced with an inauguration by International Booker Prize-winning author Banu Mushtaq. The writer launched the festivities by showering flowers on the idol of Goddess Chamundeshwari atop the Chamundi Hills. The grand celebration, which showcases Karnataka's rich cultural heritage and royal traditions, is expected to draw large crowds and will culminate with the 'Vijayadashami' procession on October 2.
Afghan Teenager Survives Flight to Delhi Hidden in Plane's Landing Gear
A 13-year-old Afghan boy was discovered at Delhi's IGI Airport after making a perilous two-hour journey from Kabul hidden inside the landing gear compartment of a KAM Airlines aircraft. The boy, a native of Kunduz, told officials he stowed away out of "curiosity." After being apprehended by airline staff, he was questioned by security forces. Following a thorough inspection of the aircraft, the teenager was safely repatriated to Afghanistan on the same flight later that day.
UK, Canada, and Australia Formally Recognise Palestinian Statehood
In a significant diplomatic shift, the United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia have formally recognised a Palestinian state. The coordinated announcements came ahead of the UN General Assembly and despite opposition from the United States and Israel. The move is intended to revive prospects for a two-state solution to the long-standing conflict. Other Western nations, including France, are expected to follow suit, signalling growing international pressure to resolve the crisis and address what some leaders called a historic injustice.
US President Threatens Afghanistan with "Bad Things" Over Bagram Air Base
US President Donald Trump has issued a threat to Afghanistan, demanding the return of the Bagram Air Base and warning of unspecified severe consequences if the Taliban-controlled country does not comply. Trump stated he is actively "trying to get it back," citing its strategic proximity to China. The threat, made on his Truth Social platform, escalates rhetoric surrounding the former linchpin of the US war effort in Afghanistan, which was evacuated during the chaotic 2021 withdrawal.
Major GST Overhaul Takes Effect, Slashing Rates on Hundreds of Goods
A new two-tier Goods and Services Tax (GST) structure came into effect today, resulting in price reductions for approximately 375 items, from kitchen staples to electronics. Under the reforms, most goods in the 12% slab will move to 5%, while 90% of items in the 28% slab will now be taxed at 18%. In a national address, Prime Minister Narendra Modi framed the rollout as a "GST savings festival," stating the changes will accelerate growth and increase the ease of doing business.
US Administration Cancels Annual Food Insecurity Survey
The Trump administration has cancelled the US Department of Agriculture's annual Household Food Security Report, a survey conducted for three decades to measure hunger and food insecurity. The administration claimed the report had become "overly politicised" and its data was "rife with inaccuracies." The move follows the 2023 report which showed the highest level of food insecurity since 2014 and comes amid major reforms to the US food assistance program, which critics say will cut off access for millions.
Trump's Proposed $100,000 H-1B Visa Fee May Backfire, Think Tank Warns
A U.S. proposal to raise H-1B visa fees to $100,000 per worker will likely hurt the American economy more than India, according to the Global Trade Research Initiative (GTRI). The think tank argues that the exorbitant fee would make hiring on-site talent prohibitive, forcing U.S. firms to accelerate offshoring work to India. This could lead to fewer H-1B petitions, slower innovation in the U.S., and ultimately benefit India by encouraging the return of top tech talent.
Taliban Government Rejects US President's Bid to Retake Bagram Air Base
The Taliban government has rejected a suggestion by U.S. President Donald Trump that American forces could retake the Bagram Air Base in Afghanistan. A Taliban spokesperson stated that Afghanistan's sovereignty is paramount and urged the U.S. to adhere to the Doha Agreement, which prohibits interference in the country's internal affairs. The statement comes four years after the chaotic U.S. withdrawal that left the strategic military facility under Taliban control, and dismisses any possibility of a renewed U.S. military presence.
Two Detained in Connection with Deadly Ambush on Assam Rifles Convoy in Manipur
Manipur police have detained two individuals in connection with a recent ambush on an Assam Rifles convoy that resulted in the death of two soldiers and injured five others. The attack occurred in the Nambol Sabal Leikai area. Following a massive security operation, a van suspected to have been used by the assailants was also recovered about 10 km from the ambush site. The investigation is ongoing to identify all individuals involved in the deadly attack.
National Conference on e-Governance Commences in Visakhapatnam
The 28th National Conference on e-Governance began today in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh. The two-day event, themed "Viksit Bharat: Civil Service and Digital Transformation," brings together officials and industry leaders from across the country. Discussions will focus on leveraging technology like AI, strengthening cybersecurity, and creating digital infrastructure to improve public service delivery. The conference underscores the government's commitment to modernising administration and will conclude with the presentation of National Awards for e-Governance.
Acclaimed Singer Zubeen Garg Dies; Thousands Gather in Guwahati to Pay Respects
Popular Assamese singer Zubeen Garg has died in Singapore. His mortal remains arrived in Guwahati to a massive outpouring of grief, with thousands of fans gathering to pay their last respects. Garg, a cultural icon in Assam and beyond, was known for his prolific career, having sung over 38,000 songs in 40 languages. His body will be kept at a sports complex for public homage before the last rites are performed, with the Assam Cabinet set to decide the cremation venue.
India Extends Cricket Dominance Over Pakistan with Decisive Asia Cup Win
India defeated Pakistan by six wickets in the Asia Cup Super 4, marking their seventh consecutive white-ball victory over their rivals and reinforcing claims that the once-fierce rivalry has become one-sided. Chasing 172 in Dubai, opener Abhishek Sharma led the charge with an explosive 74 off 39 balls, supported by Shubman Gill's 47. Their 105-run opening partnership sealed the game, ensuring a comfortable Indian win with 7 balls to spare despite a few late wickets.
Karnataka CM Gives One-Month Deadline to Fix All Bengaluru Roads
Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has set a one-month deadline for civic officials to repair all roads in Bengaluru, warning that chief engineers will be held accountable for failure. The directive comes after mounting pressure from citizens and industry leaders, including corporate CEOs, who have threatened to relocate due to the city's poor infrastructure. An amount of ₹750 crore has been allocated for the repairs, with officials tasked to fix the remaining 8,000 potholes and ensure the quality of work.
Trump Claims He Stopped India-Pakistan Conflict Using Trade as Leverage
US President Donald Trump has claimed he prevented a war between India and Pakistan by using trade as leverage. Speaking at a dinner event, he asserted that he told both nuclear-armed nations he would halt trade if they fought, which he claims led them to de-escalate. Trump also suggested he deserves a Nobel Peace Prize for his role in "ending seven wars," a list that he said included the India-Pakistan conflict among others across the globe.