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NEET row dramatic twist: Education secretary out, Dipke refuses to end protest as Wangchuk ends fast

Fri, 24 Jul 2026 11:09:00 +0530

The NEET paper leak controversy takes another dramatic turn as the Centre replaces Higher Education Secretary Vineet Joshi with Naresh Pal Gangwar in a major bureaucratic reshuffle amid growing public anger. The move comes alongside Prime Minister Narendra Modi`s announcement of fast-track courts for paper leak cases and stricter action against those responsible. Meanwhile, social activist Sonam Wangchuk ends his 26-day hunger strike after meeting Union Ministers JP Nadda and Dr. Jitendra Singh. However, the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) says its protest at Delhi`s Jantar Mantar will continue until Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan resigns. CJP leader Dipke reiterates that the movement remains peaceful and announces fresh talks with the Centre.

"Will thrash anyone if..." Raj Thackeray`s open threat ahead of July 26 march to support CJP protest

Thu, 23 Jul 2026 21:17:00 +0530

Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray and Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) president Raj Thackeray have announced a joint Tiranga March in Mumbai on July 26 in support of students and CJP supporters protesting over the paper leak issue. The march will begin at Shivaji Park and conclude at Siddhivinayak Temple, with organisers saying participants will carry only the Indian national flag and no party flags. Ahead of the rally, Raj Thackeray issued a strong warning, saying anyone attempting to disrupt the peaceful march would face action. Uddhav Thackeray had recently visited Jantar Mantar in Delhi to express support for the ongoing student-led protest.

CJP protest to end soon? Sonam Wangchuk writes letter to Centre

Wed, 22 Jul 2026 21:14:29 +0530

Sonam Wangchuk enters Day 25 of his hunger strike as he says he is prepared to end his fast if the Centre responds to the key concerns raised by the movement. Meanwhile, fresh clashes break out at Jantar Mantar, with reports of stone pelting and an ACP sustaining injuries. As tensions rise in Delhi, the CJP reiterates its three key demands while talks with the government continue.

Amit Shah holds high-level meet over NEET row, govt ready for debate

Wed, 22 Jul 2026 21:13:59 +0530

The NEET controversy takes a fresh political turn as reports indicate Union Home Minister Amit Shah holds key meetings with senior BJP leaders amid continuing protests and Parliament disruptions. Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla says the government is ready to discuss the NEET paper leak in Parliament, while BJP MP Bansuri Swaraj says the Centre remains committed to protecting students` future. Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju also says the government is prepared for a positive discussion through the parliamentary process. Meanwhile, JP Nadda and Union Minister Jitendra Singh continue outreach efforts, meeting Sonam Wangchuk at Medanta Hospital. Here`s everything that happened.

Iran fires ballistic missiles at Jordan`s resort cities Aqaba and Eilat, US Embassy issues warning

Wed, 22 Jul 2026 21:05:12 +0530

Iran’s missile barrage toward Jordan triggered air raid sirens in the Red Sea city of Aqaba. Jordan`s military says it intercepted four of six missiles, while the remaining two landed in uninhabited areas. Explosions were also reported in the nearby Israeli resort city of Eilat. The US Embassy issued a security alert, advising American citizens to avoid Aqaba`s airport, seaport and military bases due to what it describes as a credible threat.

NEET row explodes: Mumbai police detains CJP protestors at Shivaji Park

Wed, 22 Jul 2026 21:04:31 +0530

NEET protest movement gains momentum in Mumbai as CJP supporters gathered at multiple locations across the city today despite prohibitory orders under Section 144. Students assembled in Chembur, while reports indicate detentions at Shivaji Park before demonstrations begin. Meanwhile, supporters continue their sit-in at Delhi`s Jantar Mantar, where security remains tight.

South Gujarat flood shocker: Cars drown in parking lot, thousands evacuated

Thu, 23 Jul 2026 21:02:48 +0530

South Gujarat is battling one of its worst monsoon spells after Umbergaon in Valsad recorded an extraordinary 1,100 mm of rainfall in just 16 hours, triggering widespread flooding across Valsad, Surat and Navsari. Overflowing rivers, submerged roads, flooded homes and stranded residents have prompted a large-scale rescue operation. More than 2,200 people have been evacuated in Surat, while over 500 residents have been shifted to shelters in Valsad. The Indian Army, NDRF and SDRF have been deployed to assist rescue and relief efforts.

Vijay`s Jana Nayagan release: Fans go wild, Trisha struggles to exit Rohini Theatre

Thu, 23 Jul 2026 21:02:30 +0530

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister and actor Vijay`s much-awaited film Jana Nayagan has released in theatres worldwide, drawing massive crowds and celebrations across Chennai. Fans gathered outside Rohini Theatre from the early hours, with music, dancing, and cheering turning the first-day-first-show into a festival-like event. Actor Trisha Krishnan was also spotted at Rohini Theatre, where she watched the film and greeted fans, adding to the excitement surrounding the release.

Dipke accuses `BJP goons` of violence, CCTV captures stone pelting by mob, police confirm footage

Thu, 23 Jul 2026 21:02:11 +0530

The Delhi protest over the paper leak controversy takes a dramatic turn as the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) levels serious allegations against the BJP and Delhi Police following clashes near Jantar Mantar. CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke claims that outsiders were brought in to trigger violence and alleges that the stone-pelting was part of an attempt to discredit the student-led movement. The party also distances itself from the clashes and continues to demand the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. Meanwhile, CCTV footage from the July 20 protest at Jantar Mantar has surfaced and has been confirmed by the Delhi Police. The footage shows incidents of alleged stone-pelting, damage to nearby petrol pumps and shops, and police and RAF personnel coming under attack during the clashes.

Suniel Shetty unfiltered: From becoming `Anna` to fanboying over KL Rahul | Sit Wit Hitlist

Thu, 23 Jul 2026 18:33:00 +0530

He is the Indian film industry’s ever-reliable elder brother, the affectionate ‘Anna’. But how did Suniel Shetty actually end up with the moniker? In this episode of Mid-Day Presents Sit with Hitlist, host Mayank Shekhar sits down with Suniel Shetty as he takes a trip down memory lane. From Amitabh Bachchan coining the iconic title ‘Anna’ on the sets of Kaante to Sanjay Dutt popularising it, the actor shares the story behind his famous nickname. Plus, Suniel Shetty opens up about his early passion for cricket and how he now lives that dream vicariously through his son-in-law, cricket star KL Rahul. From fanboy moments to deep admiration for Rahul’s humility, this candid chat is filled with heart, nostalgia, and untold Bollywood stories!

Modi Unveils Big Paper Leak Crackdown, Fast-Track Courts

Thu, 23 Jul 2026 13:09:00 +0530

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has broken his silence on the NEET controversy, announcing a major crackdown on paper leak cases while assuring the country that those responsible for jeopardising the future of India`s youth will face swift justice. Addressing the issue, the Prime Minister said that fast-track courts will be established to ensure speedy trials and stringent punishment for those involved in examination paper leaks. He also directed authorities to take immediate action against the accused, stressing that protecting the future of students remains one of his government`s highest priorities. Modi`s remarks come at a politically charged moment, with the CJP continuing nationwide protests and the Opposition intensifying its attack on the Centre over alleged examination irregularities. The Prime Minister`s announcement follows days of demonstrations, including the high-profile `Chalo Sansad` campaign and sustained protests demanding accountability. WATCH

Delhi ACP Injured as CJP Protest Turns Violent

Thu, 23 Jul 2026 11:31:00 +0530

Fresh violence rocked the national capital as clashes during the Cockroach Janta Party protest left multiple Delhi Police personnel, including two ACPs, injured. The confrontation unfolded around Jantar Mantar, Connaught Place and Tolstoy Marg, prompting a major police investigation into the violence. According to Delhi Police, ACP Vivek Bhagat sustained injuries after security personnel were allegedly targeted with stones and bottles near Tolstoy Marg during the protest. In a separate incident, ACP Jai Prakash suffered a forehead injury during alleged stone-pelting near Jantar Mantar while performing official duties. Police further alleged that an officer was repeatedly struck on the head with sticks near the Park Hotel, while at least five Delhi Police personnel were reportedly dragged and assaulted during the clashes. Meanwhile, the CJP claimed that at least five protesters were also injured during Wednesday`s confrontation, highlighting conflicting accounts of the violence. As the investigation gathers pace, Delhi Police have launched an extensive identification drive using AI-enabled surveillance tools, alongside CCTV footage, police body-camera recordings and videos circulating on social media. WATCH

Mamdani Calls Netanyahu a `War Criminal` Before UN Visit

Wed, 22 Jul 2026 22:27:00 +0530

A political storm has erupted ahead of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu`s expected visit to New York for the United Nations, with New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani publicly declaring that Netanyahu is "not welcome" in the city and urging the United States to enforce the ICC arrest warrant. Mamdani described Netanyahu as a "war criminal", accusing him of responsibility for the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and calling on US to uphold international legal obligations. He also said that "no war criminal is welcome in New York City," extending his remarks beyond Netanyahu to all individuals facing similar allegations. President Trump has publicly rejected the possibility of any action against Netanyahu while on American soil, reiterating his support for the Israeli Prime Minister and signalling that the US would not facilitate an arrest. WATCH

JP Nadda addresses nation, issues big statement on CJP protest

Wed, 22 Jul 2026 22:09:00 +0530

Union Minister and senior BJP leader JP Nadda addresses the media on the ongoing paper leak controversy, urging political parties not to politicise students` concerns. Calling for constructive dialogue and corrective action, Nadda says the focus should remain on ensuring accountability and strengthening the examination system rather than using the issue for political gain.

Rahul, Oppn MPs Declare `Black Day` Over NEET Row

Wed, 22 Jul 2026 15:23:00 +0530

The NEET controversy intensified inside Parliament as Congress leader Rahul Gandhi led the INDIA Bloc`s `Black Day` protest, with Opposition MPs arriving dressed in black to register their protest against the Centre during the Monsoon Session. Gathering at Makar Dwar in Parliament, Opposition leaders accused the government of failing students and demanded accountability over the ongoing education controversy. The INDIA Bloc renewed its call for Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan`s resignation, insisting that justice must be delivered to students affected by alleged examination irregularities. Senior Congress leaders Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and Mallikarjun Kharge joined Rahul in stepping up the attack on the government. Priyanka Gandhi questioned the Centre over repeated paper leak allegations and raised concerns about the government`s priorities in the education sector, while Kharge accused the ruling establishment of weakening democratic institutions. WATCH

Assam Flood Fury: 31 Dead, 5.6 Lakh Struggle to Survive

Wed, 22 Jul 2026 14:25:15 +0530

Assam is battling one of its worst flood emergencies of the year as the crisis deepens dramatically across the state. In the last 24 hours alone, 21 more people have lost their lives, pushing the 2026 Assam flood death toll to 31. With relentless rainfall continuing to pound the region, the flood situation has worsened, leaving more than 5.6 lakh people affected across 16 districts. Among the worst-hit regions are Sivasagar, Charaideo, Jorhat and Golaghat, where rising floodwaters have submerged homes, roads and agricultural land. According to official data, 872 villages across 44 revenue circles remain inundated, forcing thousands of families to flee to safer locations as rivers continue to overflow. More than 12,000 displaced people have taken shelter in relief camps, while 71 relief camps and over 200 distribution centres continue to provide food, medical aid and other necessities. WATCH

CJP Protest Erupts? Viral Clip Shows RAF Personnel Under Attack

Wed, 22 Jul 2026 14:22:57 +0530

Delhi witnessed a dramatic escalation overnight as fresh violence erupted between Cockroach Janta Party CJP protesters and Delhi Police at Jantar Mantar, triggering one of the most tense law-and-order situations in the national capital in recent days. The confrontation reportedly began after tensions flared during the ongoing agitation, with authorities alleging stone-pelting and violence against security personnel. According to police, RAF personnel were allegedly assaulted during the unrest near Connaught Place, while several police vehicles were vandalised. The latest clashes come just a day after the high-profile `Chalo Sansad` march, during which lathi-charge, tear gas, detentions and large-scale confrontations dominated headlines. Delhi Police have now registered six FIRs invoking charges related to rioting, assault on public servants, vandalism, unlawful assembly, criminal conspiracy and alleged drone violations. Officials say more than 118 police personnel were injured, while over 20 police vehicles suffered damage during the violence. WATCH

Rahul Targets PM Modi, Demands Apology and Resignation

Tue, 21 Jul 2026 02:29:42 +0530

The political battle over the NEET controversy has intensified after Congress leader Rahul Gandhi launched a sharp attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi, questioning his silence over the ongoing student agitation and demanding a public apology to those protesting against alleged irregularities in the examination system. Addressing the escalating protests, Rahul Gandhi criticised the police action against students and urged the Centre to stop what he described as the "thrashing of students." He alleged that the government`s response to the growing education crisis has failed to address the concerns of lakhs of aspirants affected by alleged examination and recruitment irregularities. WATCH

CJP Defies Delhi Crackdown, Jantar Mantar Erupts Again

Tue, 21 Jul 2026 02:27:34 +0530

After the dramatic `Chalo Sansad` march, the CJP has vowed to continue its nationwide agitation, insisting that the movement against alleged examination and recruitment irregularities will not end despite the police crackdown. Protesters returned to reclaim the Jantar Mantar protest site after Delhi Police dismantled tents and the protest stage following clashes during the Parliament march. CJP leaders alleged that excessive force was used against demonstrators, while police registered FIRs and detained several protesters over violence reported during the march. CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke has, however, refused to withdraw the agitation, alleging that protesters, including students were subjected to police excesses during the demonstrations. The organization has ruled out another immediate Parliament march but says the Jantar Mantar protest will continue until its demands are addressed. WATCH

4 Indian Seafarers Killed as Russia-Ukraine War Turns Deadly

Tue, 21 Jul 2026 02:24:55 +0530

A devastating missile strike in the Black Sea has claimed the lives of four Indian seafarers after a commercial merchant vessel came under attack off the Ukrainian port city of Odesa, marking one of the deadliest incidents involving Indian nationals in the Russia-Ukraine conflict. According to India`s MEA, the attack targeted MV Golden Leo, a merchant vessel carrying an international crew. Five Indian nationals were on board at the time of the strike. Four lost their lives, while another remains in critical condition. Ukraine`s Air Force said Russia launched KH-59 and KH-69 cruise missiles, with one missile striking the starboard side of the vessel shortly after it departed Odesa, triggering a massive fire. Ukraine has accused Russia of attacking an unarmed commercial ship, an allegation Moscow has not publicly addressed. The victims include Kerala mariner Akhil Joyan, who has been identified as the first Indian casualty in the incident. The shipping company has informed the bereaved families, while the Kerala government is coordinating with the Ministry of External Affairs and diplomatic authorities regarding assistance and repatriation. WATCH

BREAKING: Two Oil Tankers Ablaze After Hormuz Explosion

Tue, 21 Jul 2026 02:23:07 +0530

The Strait of Hormuz has once again become the centre of global attention after two massive oil tankers were engulfed in flames, triggering emergency evacuations and raising fresh concerns over the security of one of the world`s busiest energy corridors. According to the IRGC, crews aboard both vessels were safely evacuated after the explosions left the tankers disabled in the strategic waterway. Iranian officials have alleged that the ships were following unsafe transit guidance linked to US military recommendations, an allegation that has not been independently verified. Meanwhile, the UKMTO is investigating a separate projectile strike involving a commercial tanker off the coast of Oman near Limah, adding to growing concerns over maritime security across the Gulf. WATCH

Modi`s `28-Year-Old` Jibe at Rahul Sparks Row Amid Delhi Protest

Mon, 20 Jul 2026 02:21:00 +0530

Prime Minister Narendra Modi ignited a fresh political debate after appearing to take a veiled swipe at Congress leader Rahul Gandhi while praising India`s young startup ecosystem during his address ahead of the Monsoon Session of Parliament. Referring to India`s growing innovation landscape, Modi celebrated the achievements of the country`s "28-year-old startup generation" and remarked that he was "not talking about any 56-year-old youngster", a statement widely interpreted by political observers and opposition leaders as a dig at Rahul Gandhi. However, the remarks came as thousands of students and activists gathered in Delhi for CJP protest over alleged examination irregularities and broader education-related issues. The demonstrations unfolded near Parliament, with protesters demanding accountability and reforms. WATCH

Wangchuk Ends Dipke`s Hunger Strike as CJP March Erupts

Mon, 20 Jul 2026 02:18:26 +0530

The CJP `Chalo Sansad` campaign entered a crucial new phase after founder Abhijeet Dipke ended his hunger strike following an appeal from activist Sonam Wangchuk, who is currently undergoing treatment in hospital after his prolonged fast. According to CJP, Wangchuk urged Dipke to conserve his strength and continue leading the movement, prompting him to end his fast and rejoin the march towards Parliament. The message was conveyed by Gitanjali Angmo, who announced Wangchuk`s appeal before protesters gathered at Jantar Mantar. Dipke later joined Angmo and the father of NEET aspirant Riya Kumari in leading thousands of supporters towards Parliament as the movement renewed its demand for Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan`s resignation over alleged examination irregularities. In a parallel development, three AISA student leaders ended their 23-day hunger strike following appeals from opposition leaders, activists and civil society members. WATCH

Iran`s Fresh Barrage Rocks Kuwait, Power Hub Engulfed in Smoke

Mon, 20 Jul 2026 02:15:06 +0530

The Iran-US conflict has entered a dangerous new phase after Kuwait`s critical infrastructure came under attack, with Iran accused of targeting the Al-Subiya power and desalination plant, one of the country`s key electricity and water facilities. Dramatic visuals showing thick black smoke and flames rising from the Al-Subiya facility have triggered global attention as Kuwait faces one of its most serious security challenges amid the escalating Gulf confrontation. Kuwaiti authorities said hostile ballistic missiles and drones were detected across the country`s airspace, with defence systems activated to intercept and neutralise incoming threats. WATCH

CJP`s `Chalo Sansad` March Triggers Delhi Lockdown

Mon, 20 Jul 2026 02:12:15 +0530

Delhi witnesses a major political showdown as the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) launched its much-publizised `Chalo Sansad` march, with thousands of students and supporters gathering to march towards Parliament over alleged examination irregularities. The national capital remained on high alert as Delhi Police increased security deployment around Jantar Mantar and key routes. Reports of barricades, roadblocks, security checks and restrictions around multiple metro stations added to the tension as authorities prepared to manage the large gathering. The protest gained further political attention after Chandrashekhar Azad joined the CJP demonstration, adding a new dimension to the ongoing agitation. CJP leaders accused BJP workers and Delhi Police of attempting to provoke unrest during the march, while alleging that authorities were preparing for a crackdown instead of addressing their demands. CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke continued to push demands linked to alleged examination irregularities and criticised the government`s response to the protest movement. Wangchuk released a handwritten letter outlining conditions for ending his fast, including demands for accountability over alleged NEET paper leak failures and an appeal to MPs and political leaders to raise the issue in Parliament. WATCH

Iran Strikes Back After US Airstrikes Kill 3, Gulf Tensions EXPLODE

Sun, 19 Jul 2026 02:09:18 +0530

The US-Iran conflict has entered its seventh consecutive night of intense military exchanges, with both sides launching fresh strikes as fears grow that the crisis could spiral into a much wider regional war. According to Iranian authorities, US airstrikes in Hormozgan province killed three people and injured at least eight others. Tehran has accused Washington of targeting airports, railway infrastructure and other civilian facilities, allegations on which the United States has not publicly commented. In response, Iran says it launched retaliatory strikes against US military targets in Kuwait and Jordan, signalling another expansion of the conflict beyond Iranian territory. Kuwaiti authorities have also reported damage to critical power and water infrastructure following drone attacks, with multiple soldiers said to have been wounded. Iran has also issued a stark warning that "no political border will be safe" if the conflict continues to escalate, underscoring fears that neighbouring countries and regional military installations could become increasingly vulnerable. WATCH

Wangchuk Shift Sparks OUTRAGE | Wife Invokes Article 32

Sat, 18 Jul 2026 02:07:23 +0530

The protest led by environmental activist Sonam Wangchuk has entered a dramatic new phase after he was forced to shift to Delhi`s Safdarjung Hospital on the 21st day of his indefinite hunger strike, triggering fresh political questions over his treatment. Wangchuk, who has been fasting over issues including alleged examination paper leaks and student suicides, was moved from Jantar Mantar after Delhi Police said his deteriorating health required immediate medical attention. The hospitalisation, however, has sparked a fresh controversy after Wangchuk`s wife, Gitanjali Angmo, publicly questioned the circumstances surrounding the transfer. She alleged that her husband should not have been hospitalised without consulting his family and claimed she was denied access to medical reports and was not allowed to carry her mobile phone inside the hospital. Angmo has further demanded that no oral or intravenous treatment be administered to Wangchuk without her prior consent and consultation with the family`s doctors. Referring to constitutional protections, she cited Article 32 while questioning what she described as "forced treatment" and maintained that Wangchuk was stable before being shifted to the hospital. WATCH

Wangchuk DRAGGED to Hospital? Jantar Mantar ERUPTS

Sat, 18 Jul 2026 02:03:32 +0530

Activist Sonam Wangchuk has been forced to Delhi`s Safdarjung Hospital after completing 20 days of an indefinite hunger strike at Jantar Mantar, as concerns over his deteriorating health reached a critical stage. According to Delhi Police, Wangchuk was moved to the hospital to ensure immediate medical care after his condition worsened during the prolonged fast. The transfer comes amid heightened public attention and follows directions from the Delhi High Court for daily clinical examinations and regular monitoring of his health. The hospital transfer triggered tense scenes at the protest site, with police removing protesters from Jantar Mantar. Delhi Police alleged that some demonstrators created obstructions during the operation, while organisers disputed the police`s version of events. CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke alleged that he was beaten and detained during the police action. Following the incident, Dipke announced that he would begin his own hunger strike, accusing authorities of using force against peaceful protesters. WATCH

$10M Bounty on Trump? Iraqi Group Seeks Soleimani Revenge

Fri, 17 Jul 2026 01:59:25 +0530

Tensions in the West Asia have intensified after an Iran-backed Iraqi resistance group reportedly announced a $10 million bounty targeting US President Donald Trump, linking the threat to the 2020 US drone strike that killed Iranian General Qasem Soleimani and Iraqi militia commander Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis in Baghdad. In a public statement, the group claimed the reward would go to any individual, group or entity that carried out the killing of Trump. The organisation accused the former US president of celebrating the deaths of Soleimani and al-Muhandis and vowed that those it describes as "oppressors" would never find peace. The Iraqi resistance group has also claimed responsibility for multiple attacks targeting US military installations in Iraq, while the US-led coalition has reported intercepting several drones over Erbil amid heightened security concerns. WATCH

ON CAM: China Landslide Traps Residents Under Mud

Fri, 17 Jul 2026 01:56:54 +0530

A massive landslide has struck China`s Chongqing municipality, triggering a major emergency response as rescue teams race against time to locate survivors before worsening weather conditions threaten search operations. According to local authorities, days of extreme rainfall destabilized the hillside, leading to a catastrophic collapse that buried buildings under huge volumes of mud and debris. Thick clouds of dust engulfed the area as residents rushed to escape, with dramatic scenes unfolding across the affected neighbourhood. Officials said more than 60 residents were evacuated shortly before the landslide struck, helping prevent an even greater tragedy. However, some people were reportedly trapped beneath the debris after the collapse, prompting an immediate large-scale rescue operation. More than 800 rescuers, including national disaster response teams equipped with specialized search and rescue equipment, have been deployed to the disaster zone. WATCH