Israeli PM Netanyahu Criticized for 'Personal Cost' Remarks Amid Iran War
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is facing public and political criticism for comments regarding the "personal price" his family is paying due to the Iran war, citing the second postponement of his son's wedding. Critics, including families of hostages and opposition figures, termed his remarks self-centered and out of touch with the nation's suffering, accusing him of narcissism during a time of national crisis and widespread hardship.
Rs 5 Crore Drugs Seized from Nigerian Woman on Delhi-Mumbai Bus
The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) seized methamphetamine and ecstasy tablets, valued at nearly Rs 5 crore, from a Nigerian woman traveling on a bus from Delhi to Mumbai. The narcotics were concealed in food packets (oats) and juice tetra packs. The intended receiver of the drugs was also apprehended in a follow-up operation. The woman has been arrested under the NDPS Act, and further investigations are underway.
Air India Cancels Eight Flights Citing Maintenance and Operational Issues
Air India announced the cancellation of eight flights on Friday, comprising four international and four domestic services, due to enhanced maintenance and operational reasons. Affected international routes include services between Dubai-Chennai and Delhi-Melbourne. The airline stated it is making alternative arrangements for passengers and offering full refunds or complimentary rescheduling. Domestic cancellations impacted routes including Pune-Delhi and Chennai-Mumbai.
Nine Killed in Car-Truck Collision in West Bengal's Purulia
Nine people died in a head-on collision between an SUV and a truck in West Bengal's Purulia district on Friday morning. The accident occurred around 6:30 am on NH-18 at Namshol village within the Balarampur police station limits. All nine occupants of the SUV were killed instantly in the crash. Police have initiated an investigation to determine the cause of the tragic incident.
Madurai-Bound Flight Returns to Chennai Mid-Air After Technical Snag
A private carrier flight bound for Madurai returned to Chennai shortly after takeoff on Friday due to a mid-air technical snag. The pilot detected the issue about half an hour into the flight and requested permission to land back in Chennai. The aircraft, carrying approximately 68 passengers, landed safely, and all passengers were deplaned without incident. The exact nature of the snag is under investigation.
Indian Embassy in US Marks International Yoga Day with Session at Lincoln Memorial
Ahead of International Day of Yoga on June 21, the Indian Embassy in Washington, D.C., organized a vibrant yoga session at the iconic Lincoln Memorial. The event saw enthusiastic participation from the Indian diaspora and local residents. Ambassador Vinay Mohan Kwatra highlighted yoga as India's ancient civilizational heritage. The session aimed to promote yoga's holistic benefits for physical well-being, mental peace, and universal harmony, aligning with the 2025 theme "Yoga for One Earth, One Health."
Israel Strikes Iran's Arak Nuclear Reactor; India Evacuates 110 Students
Amid escalating conflict, Israel reportedly struck Iran's Arak heavy water nuclear reactor on June 19, 2025, after warning of the attack. Iranian state TV claimed no radiation danger. Concurrently, India successfully evacuated 110 of its students from Iran via Armenia under 'Operation Sindhu'. The first flight landed in Delhi, bringing relief to students, primarily from Urmia University, who faced critical situations. Further evacuations are planned from the region.
US Resumes Student Visa Interviews, Mandates Public Social Media Profiles for Vetting
The United States announced the resumption of student visa interviews, paused since May 27. A new policy requires applicants to set their social media profiles to "public" for comprehensive vetting. The State Department emphasized national security, aiming to identify applicants with hostile attitudes or violent activism history. This change significantly impacts prospective international students, including many from India, by adding a new layer of scrutiny to the visa process.
ED Raids Multiple States in Bihar Constable Recruitment Scam; Links to NEET Paper Leak Masterminds Alleged
The Enforcement Directorate (ED) conducted multi-state raids on June 19, 2025, in Bihar, Jharkhand, Uttar Pradesh, and West Bengal, investigating a money laundering case linked to the 2023 Bihar constable recruitment scam. Official sources indicated that the masterminds behind this alleged scam are purportedly the same individuals involved in the 2024 NEET UG paper leak. The raids target corruption in public recruitment processes.
Supreme Court Questions Tamil Nadu ADGP's Suspension, Considers Probe Transfer in Kidnapping Case
The Supreme Court on June 19, 2025, questioned the suspension of Tamil Nadu ADGP H.M. Jayaram, linked to an alleged kidnapping case. The court asked the state government about transferring the investigation to the Special Branch or CID, terming the officer's treatment "shocking" and "demoralising." The case involves allegations that the ADGP's official car was used in an abduction related to a love marriage.
Actor Dino Morea Questioned by ED in Mumbai's Mithi River Desilting Scam Probe
Actor Dino Morea appeared before the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in Mumbai on June 19, 2025, for questioning in a money laundering probe connected to an alleged Rs 65 crore Mithi river desilting scam. The ED is investigating financial transactions linked to Morea and other accused in the BMC contract irregularities spanning 2017-2023. This follows earlier searches and questioning of the actor and his brother.
Assam Arrests Over Alleged Pro-Pakistan Social Media Posts Reach 94
Assam authorities have arrested another individual for allegedly making "pro-Pakistan and communal" social media posts, bringing the total to 94 such arrests since the Pahalgam terror attack in April. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced the latest arrest in Nalbari, reiterating the state's crackdown on "anti-national elements." Some arrested individuals may face charges under the National Security Act (NSA).
Remains of Co-Pilot from Ahmedabad Air India Crash Brought to Mumbai
The mortal remains of First Officer Clive Kunder, co-pilot of the Air India flight AI-171 that crashed in Ahmedabad on June 12, were brought to his Mumbai residence on June 19, 2025. The crash resulted in the deaths of all but one on board and 29 on the ground. Kunder's last rites are scheduled at Sewri Christian Cemetery. This follows the recent last rites of Captain Sumeet Sabharwal.
Leh-Bound IndiGo Flight Returns to Delhi Due to Technical Issue
An IndiGo flight (6E2006) en route from Delhi to Leh returned to the national capital on June 19, 2025, after being airborne for over two hours. The A320 aircraft turned back due to a technical issue that caused operational restrictions for landing in Leh. IndiGo stated the aircraft is undergoing maintenance and an alternative flight was arranged for passengers, regretting the inconvenience.
SpiceJet Flight Returns to Hyderabad Mid-Air Due to Baggage Door Warning
A SpiceJet Q400 aircraft (SG 2696) flying from Hyderabad to Tirupati on June 19, 2025, returned to Hyderabad shortly after takeoff. Pilots made the precautionary decision after an intermittent cockpit warning light indicated a potential issue with the aft baggage door's security. The flight landed safely, and passengers were deplaned normally; an alternative aircraft was arranged for their onward journey.