Politics News in English

Free Press Journal

Aug 21, 2026, 03:41 PM

Jharkhand High Court Stays Exam Cancellation, Directs Government to File Response

Ranchi: Jharkhand High Court on Friday stayed the state government’s decision to cancel the Jharkhand Staff Selection Commission-Combined Graduate Level (JSSC-CGL) examination and the Child Development Project Officer (CDPO) recruitment examination. Court stays exam cancellation The demand for the cancellation of the JSSC-CGL examination, alongside the insistence on a CBI probe, was the primary contention between the Chief Minister Hemant Soren-led Mahagathbandhan government and student protesters. They suspended their 25-day-long stir on Wednesday only after Soren announced the cancellation of the JSSC-CGL and other multiple exams. Hearing petitions challenging the government’s decision, the High Court directed the state government and the JPSC to file detailed responses by September 7. Justice Deepak Roshan heard the matter as he had also heard the petitions challenging the government’s cancellation of the 11th to 13th JPSC examinations and FSO recruitment on Thursday. On Friday, several JSSC-CGL employees approached the High Court, challenging the government’s decision to cancel the exam. The petitioners argued that blanket cancellation of examinations and appointments would adversely affect candidates who had cleared the recruitment process and, in several cases, had already joined government service. Candidates challenge decision A total of 1,932 candidates were selected following the JSSC-CGL results. Many of them have already received appointments and are working in various government departments. However, the government's decision to cancel the examination put their appointments at risk. High Court's latest decision on the cancellation of JSSC-CGL and CDPO exams came a day after it had stayed the state government’s decision to cancel the 11th to 13th Jharkhand Combined Civil Services Examination and the Food Safety Officer recruitment exam. The court stayed the government notifications until further orders and directed that the affected selected candidates be reinstated, while seeking a response from the state government and the JPSC. The court has scheduled the next hearing in the matter for September 15. Also Watch: Government’s cancellation move After a special cabinet meeting at Project Bhawan on August 17, Chief Minister Hemant Soren announced that the JSSC-CGL examination would be cancelled. The government also announced the cancellation of all examination results and selections linked to the private agency TSR Data Processing Private Limited (TDPL). The next day, the state personnel department issued notifications formally cancelling 22 examinations. Six examination processes were kept on hold and 17 others were placed under investigation, affecting a total of 45 examinations.

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Siasat News✓

Aug 21, 2026, 03:36 PM

China Opposes US Sanctions Against Iran, Calls for Dialogue

China on Friday, August 21, asserted that the United States’ imposition of “sanctions and pressure” would not help resolve conflict in the region. China’s observation comes in the wake of Washington’s open call to governments to join efforts to isolate Iran. Nearing the six-month mark of the Iran war and facing diminishing stockpiles of key weapons, the Trump administration is touting a crushing financial campaign against Tehran, promising an “economic D-Day” against a country that has so far withstood nearly five decades of punishing American sanctions. Asked about President Donald Trump’s threats, Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Lin Jian told the media on Friday that “sanctions and pressure will not help resolve the issue”. The spokesperson reiterated China’s calls for dialogue between the US and Iran and wrote on X that the country “opposes unilateral sanctions that lack basis in international law and the UN Security Council mandate.” With sparse details, President Donald Trump announced this week that the US would be imposing an “unprecedented” level of economic warfare and isolation on Iran, aiming to force its leadership to cave to demands to end its nuclear programme and fully reopen the crucial Strait of Hormuz to oil and natural gas tankers. US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent also announced on Thursday what he described as “the toughest sanctions ever imposed on Iran”. He said details of the measures would be unveiled coming Monday, August 24, suggesting they could reduce the need for further major military operations. Meanwhile, Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf has said that Iran must prepare to overcome what he called “unjust sanctions”. Qalibaf, one of Iran’s most influential political figures and Tehran’s top negotiator in talks with the United States, said economic development and security were closely linked.

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Free Press Journal

Aug 21, 2026, 03:10 PM

School Inspection Drive Turns Violent in Jaipur as Villagers Confront CJP Workers

Jaipur: The school inspection drive by the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) turned violent in Rampura Kanwarpura village near Jaipur on Friday when a team led by party spokesperson Ashutosh Ranka was allegedly confronted and attacked by villagers. Inspection drive turns violent The CJP workers had reached the village to inspect the condition of the government school as part of the party's ongoing campaign against alleged poor infrastructure and mismanagement in government schools. The team faced strong opposition from local residents and was allegedly beaten and chased out of the village. Their vehicles were also reportedly pelted with stones. Ranka alleged that villagers damaged mobile phones and vehicles belonging to the CJP workers and assaulted a woman party worker accompanying the team. Five CJP workers, including Ranka, were reportedly injured and taken to SMS Hospital for treatment. The party had planned to inspect Bhattawala Government School on Vatika Road, but the visit was cancelled following the confrontation. CJP/AAP workers tried to enter a village in Jaipur Locals gave them a warm Rajasthani welcome: “Go away. Seems the public is tired of the school-raid and drama model. #bharat pic.twitter.com/olQMB6P2RR CJP seeks action Ranka issued a 48-hour ultimatum for the arrest of those responsible and accused BJP workers of being behind the attack. He alleged that the incident was aimed at preventing the CJP from highlighting the condition of government schools. “Today the entire country witnessed the BJP's hooliganism live. This happened at the behest of Education Minister Madan Dilawar. We are giving a 48-hour ultimatum. The attackers should be arrested and the order to restrict school inspections should be withdrawn, or else we will protest across Rajasthan and demand Dilawar's resignation,” Ranka said. CJP worker Shivangi Sharma alleged that party workers were assaulted and called "terrorists" and "Naxalites" during the confrontation. Villagers oppose visit Before this incident, some of CJP workers had reached the village around 8 a.m., where they were allegedly jostled and forced to leave. Villagers later staged a sit-in outside the government school, raised anti-CJP slogans, and blocked the main village road with tractor-trolleys. The villagers opposed the entry of the CJP team, saying the government had already sanctioned around Rs 12.50 lakh for repair work at the school. Villager Rajesh Kumar Sharma alleged that the school issue was being used to gain political mileage while maintaining that locals were themselves concerned about the condition of the school. “The government has sanctioned a budget of approximately Rs 12 lakh, but construction of the school has not yet begun. If the government does not initiate construction soon, the villagers will build the school themselves, as their elders had donated the land for the school, but we will not allow any outsiders to come here,” Sharma said. Police and political reactions On the issue of the alleged absence of police force during the incident, the Shivdaspura police station SHO Rajesh Gautam said the CJP workers were peacefully turned away by villagers when they first arrived in the morning, and there was no law-and-order situation at that time. However, when the workers returned later, the villagers became angry and confronted them. Police reached the spot, but the CJP workers had already left the village, the SHO said. Education Minister Madan Dilawar hit back at the CJP over the incident and accused the party of creating disturbances. Also Watch: “Everyone saw the way the Cockroach Janata Party workers created a disturbance at Jantar Mantar. They created an obscene atmosphere. They want to create a similar atmosphere in Rajasthan. Who will tolerate the disruption in children's education? That's why the protests happened. The cockroaches hid their faces and ran away. They are using Madan Dilawar to vent their embarrassment,” Dilawar said. Congress state president Govind Singh Dotasara condemned the incident and backed the CJP workers, alleging that those involved were BJP workers rather than ordinary villagers. “They were BJP workers, not villagers. BJP workers will oppose any work that is in the public interest. They will only follow orders from the top. If anyone is prevented from going to school or attacked, we condemn it. Congress will stand with everyone who is troubled by this government,” Dotasara said. School condition controversy The confrontation comes amid the ongoing controversy over the Rajasthan government's decision to restrict the entry of outsiders, including media personnel, into government schools. The government primary school in Rampura is reportedly in poor condition. The original school building has deteriorated to the extent that children are no longer studying there. Iron angles have been installed on the roof as a safety measure, while classes have been shifted to a temporary facility around 50 metres away. Children are currently studying under a tin shed, while animal fodder has reportedly been piled up near the temporary facility. Bricks have also fallen from the walls of the old building, highlighting the poor condition of the school's infrastructure.

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India TV

Aug 21, 2026, 02:59 PM

UP Government Takes Measures to Boost Security Ahead of Assembly Elections

The Yogi Adityanath government has taken a big decision regarding security ahead of the assembly elections in UP.

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Kalinga TV

Aug 21, 2026, 02:29 PM

Odisha Government Approves ₹2,780.10 Crore Industrial Investment Proposals, Generating 14,104 Employment Opportunities

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Siasat News✓

Aug 21, 2026, 02:11 PM

Congress Leaders Demand Tough Action Against Telangana Forest Minister's Daughter for Anti-CM Remarks

Several ruling Congress MLAs and MLCs in Telangana on Friday, August 21, urged party leadership to take “tough action” over the remarks made by state Forest Minister Konda Surekha’s daughter against Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy and other leaders. About 20 MLAs and MLCs, who addressed a press conference here, also took exception to Surekha’s statement that her daughter’s remarks were her personal views. Congress MLA Vemula Veeresam said he and his colleagues are in favour of strict action against anyone making comments against the Chief Minister. “Those who find fault with the CM have no moral right to continue in the party,” he said. “Konda Surekha in her reply to the disciplinary committee mentioned that she is not connected (in her daughter’s remarks). If you are not concerned, why you did not condemn the remarks. We are asking whether you have a responsibility to condemn such comments or not when you are collectively working with the CM,” he added. Alleging that Surekha’s comments in the past have hurt the party, he urged AICC or state Congress president to take tough decisions on the matter now. He demanded that the CM remove such persons, who have become a “headache” for the party and the government. He suggested that party leaders express their views within the party fora, seeking apology for the comments against the CM. Congress MLA Vedma Bojju also took exception to the recent comments by other Congress leaders, including Komatireddy Rajagopal Reddy and Vice Chairman of State Planning Board G Chinna Reddy in separate contexts. The Telangana Congress’ disciplinary committee on August 19 had issued a notice to Konda Surekha directing her to submit a reply within three days over the comments made against CM Revanth Reddy by her daughter Sushmita. In her reply on August 20, Surekha said it is not proper to seek her explanation on the personal comments made by her daugther. She said holding her resposible for her daughter’s comments was against principles of natural justice. Reiterating her respect for the Congress leadership and the party’s discipline, Surekha requested the disciplinary committee to acknowledge that she had no involvement in what her daughter spoke. The minister also sought withdrawal of the notice issued to her by the disciplinary committee.

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DNA Hindi

Aug 21, 2026, 01:58 PM

India-Bangladesh Diplomacy: Indian High Commissioner Meets Bangladeshi Finance Minister Amid Tensions

Amid doubts over Bangladesh Prime Minister Tarique Rahman's visit to India, Indian High Commissioner Dinesh Trivedi met with Bangladeshi Finance Minister Amir Khusro Mahmud Chowdhury. The meeting discussed development projects and issues of mutual interest between the two countries. The Indian High Commission in Bangladesh said in a post on social media platform X on Thursday (August 20, 2026), "High Commissioner Dinesh Trivedi paid a courtesy call on Bangladesh's Finance and Planning Minister Amir Khusro Mahmud Chowdhury and discussed issues of mutual interest related to economic cooperation and bilateral development projects between India and Bangladesh." Earlier, High Commissioner Dinesh Trivedi had also met with Health and Family Welfare Minister Sardar Mohammad Sakhawat Hossain. The meeting comes at a time when tensions between the two countries have flared up once again. Former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina held a virtual press conference earlier this month, stating that she may return to Bangladesh in December. The press conference, however, was highly resented by the Bangladesh government. The Indian government had made it clear to Sheikh Hasina that no private conference had been organised by the Bangladesh government.

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ABP News✓

Aug 21, 2026, 01:52 PM

Omar Abdullah Responds to Rahul Gandhi's Protest Amid Ongoing Demonstrations in India

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah's reaction to Rahul Gandhi's protest at the Parliament Street police station in Delhi has come amid protests by Rahul Gandhi.

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Dainik Jagran

Aug 21, 2026, 01:42 PM

BJP and JDS MLAs Protest Outside Vidhana Soudha Demanding Minister's Resignation Over Embezzlement Allegations

BJP and JDS MLAs took out a march to Vidhana Soudha here on Friday, demanding the resignation of minister B Nagendra, who is facing allegations of embezzlement of crores of rupees in a state corporation. Opposition party MLAs also entered the assembly, where marshals prevented them from wearing black T-shirts, which is banned inside the house. Protesters agitated in front of the statue of Maharishi Valmiki, with leader of opposition R Ashok and BJP state president B Y Vijayendra leading the protest. BJP and JDS have been demanding Nagendra's resignation for several days and have earlier protested wearing black badges. The protesters shouted, Minister Nagendra should be removed. Marshals stopped BJP and JDS MLAs wearing black T-shirts at the entrance of the assembly. MLAs objected to being stopped by marshals. Ashok questioned Congress on its continued support to Nagendra. He said that it is proper for a person to give a befitting reply (Subudhendra) while Congress leaders claim that I should be present to save the entire assembly.

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ABP News✓

Aug 21, 2026, 01:32 PM

Congress Shifts Strategy in Uttar Pradesh Assembly Elections, Focuses on OBC Vote Bank

The 2027 assembly elections have already heated up in the politics of Uttar Pradesh. The biggest thing is that the Congress has decided to do something new this time by moving away from its old strategy. The party has now made full preparations to reach out to the Other Backward Class (OBC) vote bank, away from its traditional vote bank of Muslims, Brahmins and Dalits. There is a discussion in the political corridors that the Congress is now trying to make a strategy to puncture Akhilesh Yadav's bicycle. From the 5 indications given by the experts, understand that the Congress is struggling to puncture the bicycle. In the CWC meeting held in Delhi on 19 August 2026, the Congress took a big strategic decision. The party decided that the issue of Ram temple donation theft will be taken to the house. Congress general secretary KC Venugopal said that the'theft of donations'from the Ram temple has now become a'house-to-house'issue. The CWC has decided to protest across the country about the Ram temple donation issue. The party president Mallikarjun Kharge is now taking this important step to answer the BJP on the issue of financial irregularities.

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Aaj Tak

Aug 21, 2026, 01:30 PM

Rahul Gandhi Demands FIR Registration Over Pellet Gun Use at Jantar Mantar

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Friday reached the Parliament Street Police Station in Delhi. He went to the DCP office over the use of pellet guns during the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) agitation at Jantar Mantar. There Rahul Gandhi sat on a dharna demanding that an FIR be registered. He said that he will not get up until a case is registered. Delhi Police has registered an FIR in the pellet gun case. The case has been registered under sections 118 and 125 of the BNS. Section 118 relates to voluntarily causing hurt or grievous hurt by dangerous weapon or means, while section 125 relates to an act endangering life or personal safety of others. Rahul Gandhi said that this is the first step towards justice. Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha and Congress MP Rahul Gandhi said that the registration of an FIR in the pellet gun case is the first step towards justice. He said that it has been a month since the young man was shot and pellets are still stuck in his body. According to Rahul, three pellets are in the eye of the young man, while Rahul Gandhi said that he has four pellets to inflict serious injustices.

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Dainik Jagran

Aug 21, 2026, 01:25 PM

Indian Foreign Exchange Reserves Reach Record High Amid Global Trade Turmoil

The past few months have seen global trade turmoil. The geopolitics of many countries have severely affected supply chains, as well as inflation, which has increased pressure on foreign exchange reserves. However, according to data released on Friday, India's foreign exchange reserves increased to 716.9 billion during the week ended August 14, the highest level in nearly six months. The week-on-week increase in reserves was led by an increase in the central bank's foreign currency assets by $7.2 billion, while the value of gold reserves increased by $2.7 billion. The increase in foreign exchange reserves is due to the inflow of funds received under policy measures adopted by the central bank to strengthen India's balance of payments. According to news agency Reuters, the central bank's foreign exchange reserves have increased by about $50 billion in the last seven weeks. The reserves have now reached a record high of nearly $57 billion as of RBI's measures announced on Friday.

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Siasat News✓

Aug 21, 2026, 01:19 PM

India Rejects US Call to Impose Sanctions on RSS, Calls Organisation 'Biased'

Calling it a “biased” organisation, India on Friday, August 12, sought to brush aside the call given by the United States Commission for International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) for sanctions against the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS). “We are all aware that the organisation—or entity—you are referring to is biased,” said Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal during a press briefing. He said that for years, the USCIRF has been making “disparaging and inflammatory remarks about India” and advised everyone to steer clear of such groups since they operate with their “own agendas and lack of credibility or trustworthiness”. The US advisory body chairperson Asif Mahmood, on Thursday, July 20, said Prime Minister Narendra Modi is a member of the RSS, which he went on to describe as an umbrella organisation whose sub-groups have perpetrated attacks on religious minorities. “India’s PM Modi is a member of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), an Indian umbrella organisation whose sub-groups have perpetrated attacks on religious minorities, incl. Christians & Muslims. Now the RSS leader, Mohan Bhagwat, plans to visit the US,” Mahmood said. The comment was shared on the USCIRF X account. RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat is set to visit the US to participate in the ‘Universal Oneness Celebrations’ organised by the American Hindus for Engagement and Dialogue (AHEAD) in New York on August 29. USCIRF Commissioner Gene Mills had also criticised the RSS leadership, saying even when affiliated with the Indian government, the right-wing group’s leaders should not be honoured with high-level meetings or diplomatic courtesies. “Instead, the USG (US Government) should focus on imposing sanctions on RSS members found responsible for FoRB (freedom of religious belief) violations,” Mills had said. The USCIRF shared this as well on its X account. Earlier, in March, the USCIRF annual report criticised India for alleged violations of religious freedom and backed “targeted sanctions” on individuals and entities such as the RSS and Research and Analysis Wing, holding them responsible for the matter. India rejected the USCIRF report, saying that the organisation has persistently presented a “distorted and selective” picture of the country that relies on “questionable sources and ideological narratives”.

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India TV

Aug 21, 2026, 01:12 PM

Congress Leader Rahul Gandhi Leads Protest Outside Police Station in Delhi

Congress MP Rahul Gandhi sat on a dharna outside the Parliament Street police station in Delhi for the last several hours and several senior Congress leaders, including Priyanka Gandhi, were also present.

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ABP News✓

Aug 21, 2026, 01:03 PM

Union Home Minister Amit Shah Inaugurates Exhibition on New Criminal Laws in West Bengal

Union Home Minister Amit Shah said in Siliguri, West Bengal, about the three new laws, that the process of enacting new criminal laws has started all over the country, but the former Chief Minister of West Bengal Mamata Banerjee did not issue a notification to implement them in the state. The reason behind this was that the new criminal laws will be implemented, the syndicate, cut money, toll tax and the reign of fear will end completely. There was a fear that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) promised the people of Bengal in the Bengal elections. Trust us. We will give you a government of trust, not of fear. The first file that Suvendu Adhikari signed after taking charge as the Chief Minister of Bengal was to implement our three new criminal laws and remove the British-era laws from here. In Siliguri district of West Bengal, on Friday (August 21, 2026), Union Home Minister Amit Shah inaugurated an exhibition on the three new laws under the'Nasha Mukt Bharat'campaign.

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ABP News✓

Aug 21, 2026, 12:58 PM

Pakistan Summons US Envoy Over Comments on Jammu and Kashmir

Pakistan had summoned Chargé d'Affaires Natalie Baker in Islamabad on 19 August, to which India has reacted. Foreign Ministry spokesman Randhir Jaiswal said, "I see no reason to comment on Pakistan's frustration." Sergio Gor's remarks on Jammu and Kashmir had irked Pakistan. Pakistan also lodged a formal protest on Wednesday (19 August 2026) by summoning the Chargé d'Affaires of the US Embassy in Islamabad. The Foreign Ministry spokesperson bluntly told Pakistan that the Union Territories of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh are an integral and inalienable part of India and will always remain so. According to Pakistan's Foreign Ministry, a letter of protest was handed over to the US Ambassador over his alleged "factually incorrect" comments on the status of Jammu and Kashmir. The statement said that Pakistan rejected the remarks that Jammu and Kashmir was "part of India." Pakistan reiterated that Jammu and Kashmir was an internationally disputed territory, and that the Kashmiri Ambassador had stated that the region was an "inalienable" part of the United Nations Security Council.

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Kalinga TV

Aug 21, 2026, 12:57 PM

Supreme Court Refuses to Interfere with Defamation Proceedings Against Sukhbir Singh Badal

New Delhi: The Supreme Court on Friday refused to interfere with criminal defamation proceedings against former Punjab Deputy Chief Minister and Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) president Sukhbir Singh Badal over alleged remarks linking the Akhand Kirtani Jatha (AKJ) with the banned terrorist organisation Babbar Khalsa International (BKI). A bench of Justices Dipankar Datta and Sheel Nagu dismissed Badal’s challenge to the proceedings initiated by Rajinder Pal Singh, an AKJ member who claimed that the former minister’s statements had tarnished his reputation by associating him with a banned outfit. Finding no ground to interfere with the pending proceedings, the bench dismissed Badal’s plea. The controversy dates back to the 2017 Punjab Assembly elections, when then Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal visited Singh’s residence. Badal had subsequently accused Kejriwal of reaching out to “radicals” in Punjab, according to the allegations forming part of the complaint. Singh alleged that Badal had described the AKJ as the “political front” of BKI and identified him as the organisation’s spokesperson. Contending that the remarks were defamatory, Singh instituted criminal proceedings against Badal. A Chandigarh magistrate took cognisance of the complaint and summoned Badal. His subsequent challenge before the Punjab and Haryana High Court was rejected in October 2025, following which he approached the Supreme Court.

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Aaj Tak

Aug 21, 2026, 12:50 PM

Rahul Gandhi Investigates Pellet Gun Case as Pirates Hijack Indian Crew Members

Rahul Gandhi arrives at Parliament Street police station in Delhi to enquire about the investigation into the use of pellet guns during the CJP agitation. Rahul also accompanies pellet victim Sahil Lohbach. Later, Delhi Police files FIR against unknown persons in the case. Health Minister JP Nadda holds a review meeting on swine flu cases in the country. Apart from these reports, pirates have hijacked 22 Indian crew members from two ships in the Gulf of Aden. Rahul Gandhi sits on dharna.

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Amar Ujala

Aug 21, 2026, 12:49 PM

Rajasthan Civic Polls: BJP Heavyweights Test Political Muscle

Five-time MLA from Ajmer North and Rajasthan Assembly Speaker Vasudev Devnani, BJP MLA from Ajmer South Anita Bhadel and former RTDC chairman Dharmendra Singh Rathore, who were active in Ajmer politics during the Congress government, are also considered to be a big test of their political clout and influence in the civic polls.

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DNA Hindi

Aug 21, 2026, 12:38 PM

Tamil Nadu CM's Free Car Offer Rejected by DMK Amid Rising State Debt Concerns

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Thalapathy Vijay announced free cars to all 234 MLAs of the state, which was rejected by the DMK. Leader of the Opposition in the Assembly and former Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin rejected the government's offer, citing the state's rising debt, after which CM Vijay and Udhayanidhi Stalin came face to face once again. Leader of the Opposition Udhayanidhi Stalin announced that all 59 DMK MLAs had decided not to accept the offer. Leader of the Opposition, citing the increasing debt on the state, said that the TVK government itself had repeatedly exposed Tamil Nadu's financial woes. Udhayanidhi Stalin said, "The TVK government has been saying since the first day of assuming power that the government is debt-ridden, so all 59 DMK MLAs have decided not to take advantage of this offer. We appeal to the government to give free cars to the MLAs only if their election affidavits are checked."

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Amar Ujala

Aug 21, 2026, 12:33 PM

Congress OBC Cell Appoints New Office Bearers Ahead of Assembly Elections

Bharat Singh and Mohan Singhalambgaon (Tehri) have been made general secretaries of the Congress OBC cell. Kundan Singh Rana, district president of the Congress OBC cell, has nominated office bearers by expanding the district executive. Bharat Singh Rawat and Mohan Singh Negi have been made general secretaries, Bhag Singh Negi, Mizan Singh Aswal have been made vice presidents in the executive. Dayal Singh Sajwan has been made district spokesperson, Padam Singh Negi, Anil Kundura organization secretary, Pratap Singh Aswal general secretary, Laxman Singh Kaloora, Dhanveer Singh Bisht Nagendra Rana secretary and Rajesh Bisht has been given the responsibility of treasurer. The district president said that all the newly appointed office bearers will work to strengthen the party by coordinating with the workers. He said that the party workers should work with full dedication and strength in the upcoming assembly elections.

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Amar Ujala

Aug 21, 2026, 12:28 PM

India's Drainage Crisis: Waterlogging Persists Despite Efforts to Improve Infrastructure

A drainage master plan is now being prepared to relieve low-lying areas from waterlogging. Sewer lines were laid under the Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban Renewal Mission (JNNURM) during the UPA regime of the Congress. The slope of these lines was not in the right direction, which led to the problem of waterlogging. A new sewer line was laid on Malviya Road in Georgetown in the year 2024-25 under the BJP regime, which collapsed in the first rain. Drains are also being built under the AdCM Grid scheme. The construction of a drain near CMP Degree College was left incomplete, leading to severe waterlogging again in Georgetown. A special grant under the 12th Finance did not provide any relief to the area from waterlogging.

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Amar Ujala

Aug 21, 2026, 12:26 PM

BJP Slams MP Government Over Unemployment Crisis

BJP MLA Randhir Sharma said that lakhs of unemployed youth of the state have got only assurances in the name of employment. He alleged that the Congress government has played with the hopes of the youth. Sharma said that the BJP has given a notice of adjournment motion under rule-67 in the assembly to postpone the entire business of the house and hold a detailed discussion on the issue of employment. He said that unemployment is continuously increasing in the state and the youth are looking for jobs, but the government has failed to fulfill its biggest election promise of employment generation. The BJP will raise this issue prominently during the entire session.

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Amar Ujala

Aug 21, 2026, 12:26 PM

Punjab Ministerial Union Protests Non-Payment of Dearness Allowance, Boycotts AAP in Assembly Elections

JALANDHAR: The Punjab State Ministerial Union on Friday held a protest against the Punjab government. The union announced to boycott the Aam Aadmi Party in the upcoming assembly elections. The protest is being held due to non-payment of 18 per cent dearness allowance. The union president Zorawar Singh and leader Tajinder Singh Nangal said that the Punjab and Haryana High Court had ordered to pay dearness allowance to the employees. The government appealed against this decision in a letter patent appeal and later in a two-member bench. Both times the court ruled in favour of the employees. Despite this, the finance department issued a new circular directing not to pay dearness allowance. The union members allege that the government is in contempt of the judiciary orders. They say that when the government does not care about the court decisions, the employees are left with no option but to agitate. The union has unanimously decided that the Aam Aadmi Party will be boycotted in the upcoming assembly elections. Lakhs of state ministerial employees will vote against the party even after the talks are over.

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Amar Ujala

Aug 21, 2026, 12:25 PM

Election Fever: Amar Ujala Investigates Government Schemes in Shamli District

With the 2027 Uttar Pradesh Assembly elections just around the corner, political parties are gearing up to sound the poll bugle. In this context, Amar Ujala's team is visiting various districts of the state to see the ground reality. In this episode, our team tried to understand the real picture of the impact of government schemes on the common life and claims of development in Shamli district. In this investigation, visit Model Village, District Combined Hospital and Krishi Vigyan Kendra.

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ABP News✓

Aug 21, 2026, 12:19 PM

Cockroach Janata Party Founder Warns About Jaipur School After Assault Incident

Abhijeet Deepak, the founder of Cockroach Janata Party, has issued a warning about the school in Jaipur. He mentioned the incident with Ashutosh Ranka in Jaipur. He shared a video on X and said, "Just a while ago, we saw how Ashutosh Reddy and his team were beaten up by BJP goons.

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Aaj Tak

Aug 21, 2026, 12:10 PM

Economic Expertise Crucial for India's Economic Growth: P. Chidambaram

Congress leader and former Finance Minister P. Chidambaram questioned the government on India's economic policies, manufacturing, private investment, regulation, foreign trade, and competition. He said that a strong political leadership needs to be accompanied by economic expertise that deeply understands the Indian and global economy. Speaking at Business Today's'India @ 100'event, Chidambaram said that no matter how strong the political leadership is, the government needs leadership that has a deep understanding and expertise in economic matters. He cited the example of the 1991 economic reforms. Narasimha Rao was providing political leadership, while Dr. Manmohan Singh played an important role as an economic expert and'economic brain'in GDP. According to Chidambaram, there is no other person in the government today who has economic expertise like Dr. Manmohan Singh. He said that it is necessary to have an economic expert who understands the global and Indian economy both theoretically and practically. According to him, without such economic expertise, the path to economic growth would not be easy.

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Amar Ujala

Aug 21, 2026, 12:08 PM

Cockroach Janata Party Spokesperson Seeks Action Against Commentator and Media Platforms Over Personal Information Leak

Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) spokesperson Saurav Das on Friday moved the Delhi High Court seeking action against commentator Abhijit Iyer Mitra as well as several law portals and media platforms for allegedly putting his home address and other personal information in the public domain.

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The Moscow Times

Aug 21, 2026, 12:01 PM

TMC Leader Accuses BJP of Covering Up Pellet Gun Use During Student Protest

Trinamool Congress joint secretary Derek O'Brien on Friday accused the ruling BJP of trying to "cover up" the issue of pellet guns being used on protesting students in Delhi on July 20. The remarks came as Lok Sabha LoP Rahul Gandhi sat on a dharna at the Parliament Street police station here and said he would not budge until an FIR is registered on a complaint by a youth who suffered pellet injuries during the Cockroach Janta Party-led July 20 protest. "Pellets. On August 10, an RTI filed by TMC's Saket Gokhale first revealed the truth about the pellet criminal conspiracy. Modi-Shah's beleaguered government still in cover-up mode," O'Brien said. The alleged use of pellet guns during the July 20 protest has since become a major point of contention, with opposition leaders demanding accountability over the injuries suffered by protesters and seeking registration of an FIR. Gokhale's RTI applications to four major central government hospitals in Delhi sought details of persons who sustained pellet gun injuries during the protest. Replies from Lady Hardinge Hospital and Safdarjung Hospital confirmed a total of at least 10 victims -- nine at Lady Hardinge and one at Safdarjung. AIIMS, however, declined to provide information sought under the RTI on whether any of the 96 casualty and emergency cases recorded on July 20 involved pellet, shot or projectile injuries. The hospital said 94 of the cases were medico-legal and eight patients were admitted, but refused to disclose the nature of the injuries, citing Section 8(1)(j) of the RTI Act and stating that disclosure could directly or indirectly lead to identification or tracing of the individuals concerned.

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Aaj Tak

Aug 21, 2026, 11:58 AM

Smriti Irani Blasts Rahul Gandhi's Police Station Protest, Accuses Him of Political Opportunism

Former Union minister and BJP national general secretary Smriti Irani has launched a scathing attack on Rahul Gandhi over his sit-in protest at the DCP office in Delhi. In an exclusive conversation with Aaj Tak, Smriti Irani alleged that Rahul Gandhi is trying to take political advantage of the whole matter. In fact, Rahul Gandhi had reached the DCP office with Sahil and his mother, who were injured in pellet firing, on Friday afternoon, where they demanded an FIR from the police officers and the name of the investigator. After this, the police got into a heated argument with the Congress MP. Rahul Gandhi sat on a sit-in at the Parliament Street police station. Rahul Gandhi said that he will not leave until the FIR is registered. Talking about the same issue, Smriti Irani said that the Congress party has been trapped in a cycle on the issue of Vande Mataram and is now creating a new swang by sending its leader to the police station, so that the attention of the country can be diverted from the Vande Mataram controversy.

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Dainik Bhaskar

Aug 21, 2026, 11:55 AM

Samajwadi Party Leaders Accuse SSP of Abuse in His Chamber

SP leaders Dr. Digvijay Bhati and Mohit Jatav claimed that SSP abused them in his chamber.

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Siasat News✓

Aug 21, 2026, 11:54 AM

Election Commission Refuses to Disclose Details of CEC's Official Visits, Says Information is 'Personal'

Former Rajya Sabha MP Saket Gokhale on Friday, August 21, alleged that the Election Commission has refused to disclose details of official visits undertaken by Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar and expenditure incurred on them from public funds, citing “personal information” under the Right to Information Act. Gokhale said he had sought the information through an RTI application filed on June 18, asking for details of all official visits undertaken by Kumar since he assumed charge as CEC on February 19, 2025, along with the expenditure incurred from public funds. No reaction from the Election Commission was immediately available. The information sought included the total number of domestic and foreign visits, visit-wise dates, destinations, purpose and mode of travel, details of officials accompanying the CEC at government expense and a break-up of expenditure on travel, accommodation, daily allowance, local transport and other expenses. According to a copy of the RTI reply shared on X by Gokhale, the EC said in its July 31 response that, “The information sought under these items relates to personal information and therefore cannot be shared under Section 8(1)(j) of the RTI Act, 2005.” Questioning the decision, Gokhale said, “How can expenditure incurred on official visits from public funds be called ‘personal information’?” “Even the cost of PM’s foreign travel has been disclosed in Parliament. So what makes Gyanesh Kumar so special?” he said. Gokhale also questioned what the poll panel was seeking to conceal by refusing to disclose the expenditure. “What sort of public money has been spent on Gyanesh Kumar’s visits that ECI is scared to disclose it?” he asked. He alleged that the Election Commission had become “a black hole” since Kumar took charge as CEC and accused the poll panel of lacking accountability and transparency. “Ever since Modi-Shah appointed Gyanesh Kumar as CEC, the ECI has become a black hole. A constitutional body is being run as a personal fiefdom of Modi-Shah and Gyanesh Kumar,” Gokhale alleged. “Be it SIR or spending of public money — ECI has ZERO accountability or transparency,” he alleged. Gokhale said the ECI’s response raised questions over expenditure incurred on the CEC’s official travel. “What exactly is ECI trying to hide about Gyanesh Kumar’s trips? We need answers,” he said. According to the copy of the reply shared by Gokhale, the application had sought information related to completed official visits funded wholly or partly from public funds and did not seek any prospective itinerary, real-time movement details or security, escort or protocol arrangements.

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The Moscow Times

Aug 21, 2026, 11:52 AM

Congress Initiates Talks with AAP and RGP for United Front in Goa Assembly Elections

The Congress has opened formal alliance talks with the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and the Revolutionary Goans Party (RGP) to build a united front ahead of the 2027 Goa Assembly elections. Talking to reporters, state Congress president Girish Chodankar confirmed positive preliminary discussions with AAP and RGP leaders, but noted that detailed seat-sharing negotiations will begin once the Goa Forward Party lifts its temporary suspension on alliance talks. As the principal Opposition party, the Congress has taken the initiative to bring like-minded parties together to fight the upcoming assembly polls as a united front, he said. Chodankar said that Goa AAP chief Valmiki Naik and RGP president Viresh Borkar have shown positive signs of allying with the Congress. The formal talks of alliance will begin shortly, during which other details, including seat-sharing, could be discussed, he said. He asserted that the Congress is also willing to go ahead with a tie-up with the Goa Forward Party, which has temporarily suspended talks. "We are waiting for the GFP to lift the suspension of talks, so that we can begin the discussion," Chodankar said. Earlier this month, the GFP, which had allied with the Congress during the 2022 state polls, stalled the negotiations, claiming they want to concentrate on all 40 constituencies in the coastal state. In the 2022 Goa assembly polls, the BJP won 20 of the 40 seats, while the Congress bagged 11. GFP had won one seat back then. (With inputs from PTI)

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ABP News✓

Aug 21, 2026, 11:51 AM

Tamil Nadu Government's Free Car Offer Sparks Confrontation with Opposition

The Vijay government's decision to announce free cars to 234 MLAs in Tamil Nadu has led to a confrontation with the opposition DMK. In a heated debate in the state assembly, the DMK has officially rejected the offer of free government cars to the state government, citing mounting debt. Opposition leader Udhayanidhi Stalin has decided not to take advantage of this offer to all MLAs (59). He has also questioned the words and deeds of the TVK-led government. He said on Friday that since coming to power, the administration has repeatedly mentioned the state's financial crisis. Udhayanidhi has said that since the first day of assuming power, TVK has been saying that the government is in debt. The DMK has decided not to take this offer to all MLAs. He also appealed to the government to check the election affidavits before giving free cars to the MLAs.

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Amar Ujala

Aug 21, 2026, 11:49 AM

India Denies US Trip Permission, Retaliates Against Pakistan Over High Commission Structures

Jaiswal said the proposed itinerary should be consistent with the designation and purpose of the visit. According to him, in this case, the proposed trip to the United States did not meet these standards, so political clearance was not granted. The Ministry of External Affairs also responded to the case involving the Indian High Commission in Pakistan. Jaiswal said that some structures associated with parking facilities in front of the Indian High Commission had been removed. India had requested Pakistan not to remove these structures, but despite this, these structures were removed. India then removed some temporary structures in the lane outside the Pakistani High Commission in Delhi, calling it a proportionate action. Jaiswal declined to provide any new information on the proposed visit of the Bangladesh prime minister to India. He said he had nothing to say on the matter at the moment. Jaiswal said that an update, if any, would be shared.

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Aaj Tak

Aug 21, 2026, 11:48 AM

Yogi Adityanath Criticizes Opposition Leaders at Hindu Pride Day Event

Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath said that how do the people of the party who change their color like a chameleon define PDA, once their P was backward, then became a Pandit. Look, one day these people will convert P to Pakistan. Their statements cannot be trusted. When will they speak, there is no trust. These are vultures who will dry the tree on which they climb. The most painful thing was that under normal etiquette and rites, Mayawati came and paid tribute to Babuji, but the SP chief did not express anything by words, far from paying tribute directly. How unfortunate, how shameful it is. It was an insult to every Hindu who felt that Babuji's life was dedicated to Sanatan values and Hindu pride. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath attended the'Hindu Pride Day'program organized on the occasion of the fifth death anniversary of former Chief Minister Padma Vibhushan Kalyan Singh at Bharat Ratna Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium on Friday.

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DNA Hindi

Aug 21, 2026, 11:48 AM

Telangana Chief Minister's US Visit Cancelled Due to Unsuitable Itinerary

Responding to a question on why Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy did not get permission to visit the US, the Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Friday (August 21) said that the CM's itinerary was not considered suitable for the purpose of his visit. CM Reddy had said that the central government has denied him permission to visit the US. Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy is currently on a visit to London. He had planned to visit the US and return to Hyderabad on August 30. The Chief Minister's Office reported that the official delegation of Telangana Rising led by Chief Minister Revanth Reddy has been forced to cancel their visit to the US after the Ministry of External Affairs denied permission. According to the CMO, the ministry has said that the approval has not been given from a political point of view. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal later clarified that the visits of the chief ministers and other dignitaries are assessed by the ministry before political clearance is given. He however said that the proposed itinerary and the purpose of the visit "must be in line" with the US.

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ABP News✓

Aug 21, 2026, 11:40 AM

Jharkhand High Court Stays Cancellation of JPSC Exams and Appointments

Political rhetoric has also intensified in Bihar after the Jharkhand High Court on Thursday (August 20, 2026) stayed the state government's decision to cancel the 11th to 13th JPSC examinations and appointments in Jharkhand.

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Dainik Bhaskar

Aug 21, 2026, 11:35 AM

Rahul Gandhi Protests Outside Police Station Demanding FIR Against Pellet Victim

Rahul Gandhi has been sitting on a dharna outside Delhi's Parliament Street police station since around 1 pm on Friday. He says he will not leave until an FIR is filed against Sahil Lohbach, a pellet victim. Rahul shows him the shrapnel and says,'There is evidence of pellet injuries. These shrapnel have come out of Sahil's body. If police did not fire the gun, who did. Police are saying they have instructions not to file an FIR. Priyanka Gandhi, Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury, Salman Khurshid and Jairam Ramesh are also present with Rahul. Students protesting during the Parliament march on July 20 were injured. BJP general secretary Smriti Irani says why Rahul never speaks against the attack on police. Union minister JP Nadda says the protest is not for students or justice but for political frustration and media attention.

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ABP News✓

Aug 21, 2026, 11:33 AM

Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy's US Visit Denied Permission by Ministry of External Affairs

Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy was denied permission to visit the United States. In response to questions during the regular press conference of the Ministry of External Affairs, Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said that the Ministry of External Affairs looks after the visit of Chief Ministers and other dignitaries to give them political clearance. He further said that in such cases, whatever programme is made, it should be according to the post and purpose of the visit. Jaiswal further said that in this case, it was not the case in the United States and hence the clearance was not given. The Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson said that Revanth Reddy was given clearance to visit the United Kingdom. Significantly, earlier it was reported that the Telangana CM was not allowed to visit the United States by the Central Government. The Chief Minister's Office said that Revanth Reddy is currently in London and from here he had plans to visit the United States and return to Hyderabad on 30 August. The CMO statement further said that the official visit of Telangana led by Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy to the United States "has not been approved by the Ministry of External Affairs."

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The Moscow Times

Aug 21, 2026, 11:31 AM

US Sanctions on Cuba: A Contradiction in Policy?

The United States has demanded that Cuba open up to private investment, and Cuba has passed sweeping reforms to encourage just that. So Cuba's UN ambassador says he wants to know why Washington keeps piling on sanctions that stymie the very economic opening it has sought for decades. Ambassador Ernesto Soberón Guzmán, in an interview this week with The Associated Press, directed his question to US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, the main architect of the Trump administration's Cuba policy: “What are you afraid of? If you are so convinced that the Cuban government is an incompetent government, why do you need to implement almost every two weeks new sanctions?” The US State Department responded to a request for comment with a quote from Rubio saying new sanctions will continue to be announced every couple of weeks to close off “escape valves that they're trying to create in every mechanism.” Then on Thursday, the US imposed more economic penalties on Cuban industries, targeting state-owned mining, metal and construction companies. Cuba has been pushed to the brink by an oil blockade imposed by the United States in January on top of a decades-old embargo, coupled with the escalating sanctions. The moves by President Donald Trump's administration, meant to put pressure on the government by depriving it of funding, have worsened already debilitating blackouts, cut workers off from public transport, crippled infrastructure and deepened shortages in medicine and food in the Caribbean island nation. Guzmán said the sanctions are the main obstacle to Cuba opening up its economy. He said the impact of the US measures — specifically the shortage of electricity and lack of fuel to run a business or travel — has turned off investors and tourists, a major source of Cuba's income. Some companies have pulled out of Cuba, including the Spanish hotel chain Meliá, which relied on tourist revenue and cited “significant operational, legal, economic and financial difficulties" in explaining its decision to leave. ”Literally, the United States has done everything imaginable to try to prevent foreign investors," said William LeoGrande, a professor at American University and a leading expert on US-Cuba relations. ”When they say, `Well, we want to see Cuba open up to foreign investment,' they're being disingenuous. ... It's not possible for them to succeed without some kind of sanctions relief.” The goal of Trump's Republican administration, he said, is "not just to open up Cuba economically but to overthrow the Cuban government — to change the nature of the Cuban political system.”

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ABP News✓

Aug 21, 2026, 11:30 AM

Rahul Gandhi Protests Outside Police Station Over Pellet Gun Case

Rahul Gandhi has been on a four-hour sit-in at the Parliament Street police station in Delhi. He is adamant on filing an FIR in the pellet gun case. Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul alleges that the police have instructions from above not to file an FIR. Priyanka Gandhi is also present with him at the Parliament Street police station. Shiv Sena UBT Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Raut calls Rahul Gandhi'today's Bahubali '. Sharing a picture of Rahul Gandhi, Sanjay Raut wrote, "Today's Bahubali! Rahul Gandhi at the Parliament Street police station, who fired the pellet guns? Amit Shah Jawab do." Today's Bahubali! Rahul Gandhi at the Parliament Street police station, who fired the pellet guns. Amit Shah Jawab do. BJP targets Rahul Gandhi's sit-in. JP Nadda says this is an attempt to divert attention from Vande Mataram. He questions whether Rahul Gandhi does not trust the judiciary. Actually, on Friday (August 21) Rahul Gandhi is sitting on a sit-in outside the Parliament House with pellet victims. Sahil Gandhi is sitting outside the DCP's office at 12 noon.

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Aaj Tak

Aug 21, 2026, 11:28 AM

Cockroach Janata Party Leader Sues Over Alleged Online Privacy Breach

Saurav Das of the Cockroach Janata Party has filed a lawsuit in the Delhi High Court against commentator Abhijit Iyer Mitra and some web portals. Das has alleged that his home address and personal information were made public on social media, endangering his safety. Das has sought deletion of his personal information from online posts in the petition and damages. He has also sought mandatory and permanent injunctions against the defendants. Google LLC and X Corp (formerly Twitter), including Sunday Guardian, Jaipur Dialogues, Pamphlet, and Lawbeat, have also been made defendants in this case. There was a huge uproar over the government school in Rampura-Kanwarpura village in the Bagru area of Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan. The Cockroach Janata Party (CJP), as part of its campaign'School Theek Karo ', had sent party workers to see the condition of the government school in the village, but the villagers chased them away. CJP spokesperson Ashutosh Ranka had alleged that Kanwar-Kanwar (formerly Twitter), along with his primary school team, broke the glass panes of the primary school in the morning.

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The Moscow Times

Aug 21, 2026, 11:25 AM

Supreme Court Closes Proceedings on 'The Kerala Story' Film Certification Challenges

The Supreme Court on Friday closed the proceedings on a batch of petitions relating to the controversial 2023 film, "The Kerala Story", while leaving open the question of law relating to challenges to certification of films by the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC). Chief Justice of India Surya Kant-led bench on Friday disposed of dozens of cases which were filed either during the COVID-19 period or became infructuous due to passage of time. Dealing with two pleas seeking cancellation of CBFC certification of "The Kerala Story", the bench, which also comprised Justices Joymalya Bagchi and V Mohana, said that the petitions have become infructuous. The third plea filed by the film's producers, Sunshine Pictures Pvt Ltd and Vipul Amritlal Shah, was withdrawn. The petition had challenged the then West Bengal government's decision to ban the film. The top court, in May 2023, had stayed the ban imposed by the state government. Advocate Nizam Pasha, appearing for petitioners Qurban Ali and B R Aravindakshan in the other two matters, submitted that the issues raised by his clients continued to survive despite the film having already been released. Pasha pointed out that the Kerala High Court had disposed of a writ petition concerning the film after observing that the plea was not maintainable against the grant of a certificate to a movie by the CBFC. He said that while the statutory remedy against CBFC certification was available to the producer, other persons aggrieved by the contents of a film had no such statutory remedy and were, therefore, required to approach the court through a writ petition. The bench, however, noted that the film had already been released. Justice Bagchi observed that the question of law could be left open. "The litigation has to await another movie... another movie that is controversial, we will go into that question," Justice Bagchi said. Pasha submitted that the petitioners had specifically sought cancellation of the film's certificate and pointed out that the movie continued to be available on OTT platforms. He also said the petitioners had initially approached the Supreme Court against an interim order of the high court. But the high court subsequently disposed of the petition after noting that the Supreme Court was seized of the issue, he said. Pasha further urged the court to lay down guidelines for films which allegedly promote hate speech. "Guidelines have to be laid down for films that promote hate speech," he said. "Alright, file a comprehensive writ petition seeking general guidelines," the CJI responded. The bench subsequently recorded that the question of law would remain open and granted the parties liberty to initiate appropriate proceedings in accordance with law. "The Kerala Story", directed by Sudipto Sen and produced by Vipul Amritlal Shah, had triggered a major political and social controversy following its release in 2023. The film initially claimed that nearly 32,000 women from Kerala had been converted to Islam through deceit and forced to join the Islamic State (ISIS), a claim that drew strong criticism. (With inputs from PTI)

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The Moscow Times

Aug 21, 2026, 11:24 AM

Russian Politician Nikolai Bondarenko Arrested Ahead of Parliamentary Elections

Law enforcement authorities in the southern Saratov region arrested Communist Party firebrand Nikolai Bondarenko on Friday, a move the politician slammed as an attempt to bar him from running in parliamentary elections next month. Bondarenko, a former Saratov regional lawmaker who is now running for a seat in the lower-house State Duma, confirmed his arrest on his blog. He told journalists that police are threatening to charge him for publicly displaying Nazi symbols, an offense that, if found guilty, would automatically bar him from running in the September elections. “Ten police officers detained me at my home,” Bondarenko told news outlet Ostorozhno Novosti. “This is connected to my political activity, and it ’s an attempt to pressure both the Communist Party and me, and to ‘adjust,’ so to speak, the results of the upcoming elections.” Communist Party leader Gennady Zyuganov said he was aware of Bondarenko ’s arrest and that party lawyers are “getting things sorted.” Bondarenko rose to national fame through his fiery, unfiltered attacks against Russia ’s deeply unpopular 2018 pension reforms. During his tenure in the Saratov regional assembly from 2017 to 2021, he built a large social media following through theatrical political stunts, including a viral experiment where he tried to survive on a monthly pension of 3,500 rubles ($52). His populist rhetoric, savvy use of social media and diatribes against the ruling United Russia party earned him high praise from late opposition activist Alexei Navalny, who once dubbed Bondarenko his “favorite” regional lawmaker. Bondarenko was stripped of his seat in the Saratov regional assembly in 2022 after state prosecutors claimed he failed to declare ad revenues and user donations generated through his popular YouTube channel.

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The Moscow Times

Aug 21, 2026, 11:24 AM

Russian Politician Arrested Ahead of Parliamentary Elections

Law enforcement authorities in the southern Saratov region arrested Communist Party firebrand Nikolai Bondarenko on Friday, a move the politician slammed as an attempt to bar him from running in parliamentary elections next month. Bondarenko, a former Saratov regional lawmaker who is now running for a seat in the lower-house State Duma, confirmed his arrest on his blog. “Ten police officers detained me at my home,” Bondarenko later told news outlet Ostorozhno Novosti. “This is connected to my political activity, and it ’s an attempt to pressure both the Communist Party and me, and to ‘adjust,’ so to speak, the results of the upcoming elections.” Communist Party leader Gennady Zyuganov said he was aware of Bondarenko ’s arrest and that party lawyers are “getting things sorted.” Party officials said he faces charges of “extremism” over an old social media post featuring a photo of the late opposition activist Alexei Navalny. However, they said that the account that made the post does not belong to Bondarenko. Other political candidates seeking to run in the September elections have faced similar legal challenges. Pro-peace politician Boris Nadezhdin, who fled Russia earlier this month, was barred from the ballot under the same charges of displaying “extremist” symbols after sharing a link to a video that contained an image of Navalny. Bondarenko rose to national fame through his fiery, unfiltered attacks against Russia ’s deeply unpopular 2018 pension reforms. During his tenure in the Saratov regional assembly from 2017 to 2021, he built a large social media following through theatrical political stunts, including a viral experiment where he tried to survive on a monthly pension of 3,500 rubles ($52). His populist rhetoric, savvy use of social media and diatribes against the ruling United Russia party earned him high praise from Navalny, who once dubbed Bondarenko his “favorite” regional lawmaker. Bondarenko was stripped of his seat in the Saratov regional assembly in 2022 after state prosecutors claimed he failed to declare ad revenues and user donations generated through his popular YouTube channel.

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Indian Express

Aug 21, 2026, 11:23 AM

Rahul Gandhi Stages Sit-in to Demand FIR Against Security Personnel Who Fired Pellet Guns During Protest

Rahul Gandhi , the Leader of the Opposition in Lok Sabha , reached a police station with a 19-year-old on Friday to register a complaint against security personnel who allegedly fired pellet guns during the July 20 protest march to Parliament. Later, he staged a dharna outside the office of DCP, New Delhi, alleging that the police had refused to file an FIR. Soon after, his sister and Wayanad MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra joined him at the sit-in. Congress leaders, including senior leaders Jairam Ramesh, Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury and Kumari Selja, and a large group of party workers also reached the DCP office. According to police sources, Rahul Gandhi has been asked to end the sit-in. Personnel of the Rapid Action Force (RAF) have now gathered outside the DCP office. Gandhi accompanied Sahil Lochab, who suffered a pellet injury during the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP)-led march to demand former Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan ’s resignation. They first went to the Mandir Marg police station, and then to the office of the Deputy Commissioner of Police, Central Delhi, at Parliament Street. “Rahul Gandhi first went to Mandir Marg police station. Because the case was not registered there, he went to meet DCP (Central). He will not return till the case is registered,” said a Congress leader. Lochab submitted a written complaint to the Delhi Police on August 14, but the police refused to provide details of the Investigating Officer, the Congress leader said. “He (Lochab) pursued (the case) on 17th (August) with email and phone. Again, no details of the Investigating Officer were given. No acknowledgement was also given,” the Congress leader said. He added that Gandhi accompanied Lochab to help him. “As it’s a cognisable offence, an FIR also has to be registered, but Delhi police is not doing so,” the leader said. Lochab, a 19-year-old Najafgarh resident, suffered a pellet injury in his right eye during the July 20 march. He underwent a surgery, but a shrapnel is still lodged inside. The use of pellet guns during the march of Parliament on July 20 has come under scrutiny. Earlier, The Indian Express reported that the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) had found that a Rapid Action Force (personnel) fired seven shots from a pellet gun and five of them hit protesters. The Opposition, led by Gandhi, has been targeting the government, especially Union Home Minister Amit Shah, on the alleged excesses during the crackdown on the march against paper leaks. This issue paralysed the Monsoon Session of Parliament, as Gandhi demanded the resignation of Shah, who is in charge of Delhi Police and paramilitary forces. Speaking to reporters, Gandhi alleged that police officers had told him about “an order from higher-ups to not lodge an FIR”. “We want an FIR. A young boy from India is hurt and his mother is standing here… Till there is an FIR, we will not move from here. Such atrocities are committed against the poor, women who are raped… We are being told that in India, a youngster can be shot at. In this country, the Home Ministry of Amit Shah will not let justice happen,” said Gandhi. “On July 20, pellet guns were used at Connaught Place. What is the proof of that? It is this,” said Gandhi as he showed a small box which apparently had pellets in it. “Where did they come from? They came from his body,” he said, asking the youngster to show his injuries. “He won’t be able to see with one eye. There are pellets very close to his heart. Delhi Police has said that they didn’t use pellet guns. Then there is one question. Who used these pellets? Maybe someone else fired pellets and if not someone else, then he himself may have fired pellets. Because there are pellets in his body,” said Gandhi. He added that Lochab’s lawyer has been running from pillar to post to get an FIR registered. On July 20, I was fired at with a pellet gun. I was admitted to the Lady Hardinge hospital and then referred to AIIMS, where I underwent two surgeries. Even now, I cannot see clearly. I submitted a seven-page complaint through my lawyer, but an FIR has not been registered,” Sahil Lochab told media persons. Responding to Gandhi’s sit-in, veteran BJP leader told the media, “ It is very unfortunate that Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi resorts to politics of anarchy. Currently, he is sitting on dharna at Parliament Street police station without permission or prior information. The police have informed him that an FIR has already been registered on the incident he is citing and it is being probed. The Supreme Court has formed a high-powered committee to probe this. Rahul Gandhi, don’t you want to respect any law? We suspect and allege that Congress is now stuck due to its stance on the national song, Vande Mataram. We condemn what the Rahul Gandhi-led Congress is doing right now.”

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Amar Ujala

Aug 21, 2026, 11:19 AM

Rashtrapati Bhavan Withdraws Statement on Change of Guard Ceremony Amid India-Bangladesh Tensions

An earlier Rashtrapati Bhavan communique had said that there would be no Change of Guard ceremony at the forecourt on August 22. This was attributed to a full rehearsal of the formal reception for the Bangladesh Prime Minister. Later, the Rashtrapati Bhavan issued a fresh brief statement saying that the press release issued on August 21 titled'No Change of Guard Ceremony This Saturday'stands withdrawn. The withdrawal of the statement did not clarify the final status of the proposed visit and reception for Tarique Rahman. The development comes at a time when diplomatic ties between India and Bangladesh remain strained. Among the major disputes between the two countries is the demand for the extradition of former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. Against this backdrop, questions are also being raised about Tarique Rahman's visit to New Delhi during the BRICS summit in September. Bangladesh, however, is still cautious about the visit. In an interview to the official news agency BSS on Thursday, Kabir Humayun, advisor on foreign affairs to Bangladesh, said that Tarique Rahman remains unlikely to attend the summit.

45 shares

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Dainik Jagran

Aug 21, 2026, 11:19 AM

Pakistan's Military Power Shift: One Person to Control Entire Military and Strategic Command

Pakistan, the nefarious neighbour roaming around the world, has made a major change in its military system, which has again raised serious questions on the democratic structure of the country. Pakistan's National Assembly has approved amendments to the'Defence Forces of Pakistan Act, 2026'and the'National Command Authority Act, 2010 '. With this approval, it is going to be the first time in Pakistan's short history that the entire power of Pakistan's military and strategic command will now be in the hands of one person and that person is Field Marshal Asim Munir. The point to be noted is that how much this change is beneficial for Pakistan and its people is only a doubt. However, one thing is clear from this decision that Asim Munir has now been given unbridled power by the government of Pakistan. Well, more thought is that this power has been handed over to Munir at a time when Pakistan is struggling with economic crisis and turmoil.

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ABP News✓

Aug 21, 2026, 11:16 AM

Haryana Politics: Abhay Chautala Takes Aim at Congress' Bhupinder Hooda and BJP's Archana Gupta

Senior Haryana INLD leader Abhay Chautala has launched a scathing attack on Congress leader Bhupinder Singh Hooda and BJP state president Archana Gupta.

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