Stunt-based reality show Khatron Ke Khiladi 15 has come under scrutiny after its latest challenge left several contestants with visible bruises and swelling, reigniting discussions over participant safety in high-risk television reality shows.

Images from the latest episode, showing contestants with injury marks following a rubber bullet-based stunt, quickly spread across social media. While many viewers applauded the contestants' resilience, others questioned whether the task pushed the boundaries of safety too far.

The incident has once again highlighted the physical risks associated with one of Indian television's most demanding reality shows, hosted by filmmaker Rohit Shetty.

Rubber Bullet Task Sparks Debate

The controversy stems from a recent challenge in which contestants were required to complete a stunt while being struck by rubber bullets as part of the obstacle course.

Participants, including Gaurav Khanna, Vishal Aditya Singh, Shagun Sharma, and Karan Wahi, reportedly sustained bruises and red marks during the task. Photographs of their injuries soon went viral, prompting widespread debate online.

While no contestant reportedly suffered life-threatening injuries, the visuals triggered fresh questions over the show's safety protocols and the extent of physical challenges contestants are expected to endure.

Rubina Dilaik Fainted During Season 15

Earlier in the current season, actress Rubina Dilaik also sparked concern after collapsing shortly after completing a physically demanding stunt.

Videos from the set circulated widely on social media before Rubina later clarified that she had sustained only minor injuries and had recovered. She thanked fans for their concern and described such challenges as part of participating in the competition.

Previous Seasons Have Seen Serious Injuries

Injuries during Khatron Ke Khiladi are not uncommon, with several contestants experiencing accidents over the years.

During Season 14, actor Aashish Mehrotra suffered a shoulder injury while performing a stunt. He received medical treatment before returning to continue the competition.

In Season 13, actress Daisy Shah injured her back during an action-based challenge. Though the injury was not considered serious, she required medical evaluation before resuming the show.

One of the most serious incidents occurred during Season 11, when actor Vishal Aditya Singh suffered an eye injury after a foreign object reportedly entered his eye during a stunt. Prompt medical treatment helped prevent permanent damage, allowing him to eventually return to filming.

Meanwhile, Season 10 winner Karishma Tanna fractured a finger while performing a challenge but continued competing after receiving treatment. She went on to win the season despite the setback.

Safety Measures Remain in Place

The makers of Khatron Ke Khiladi have consistently maintained that every stunt is designed and supervised by trained professionals.

Contestants undergo detailed briefings before attempting each challenge, while safety harnesses, protective equipment, rescue personnel and medical teams remain on standby throughout filming.

Host Rohit Shetty has repeatedly stated that contestant safety remains the highest priority and that all tasks are conducted under expert supervision.

Risk Continues to Be Part of the Format

Despite extensive precautions, the latest incident has renewed discussions about the balance between entertainment and participant safety in stunt-based reality television.

As Khatron Ke Khiladi 15 continues its run, the rubber bullet challenge has become one of the season's most talked-about moments, with viewers divided between appreciating the contestants' courage and questioning whether certain stunts place participants at unnecessary risk.

Indian cricketer Ishan Kishan has once again grabbed attention, this time away from the cricket field. The wicketkeeper-batter was recently seen performing his duties as an Assistant Manager at the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) in Patna, with photographs of him in formal attire wearing an RBI identity card going viral on social media.

Kishan secured the position under the sports quota, joining a select group of Indian cricketers who balance their sporting careers with government or public sector jobs.

Although professional cricket remains his primary commitment, Kishan's appointment reflects a long-standing tradition of Indian sportspersons being offered government positions in recognition of their achievements.

The left-handed batter last represented India during the T20I series against Zimbabwe and is expected to be part of India's squad for the Asian Games later this year.

Mohammed Siraj Serves as Telangana DSP

India pacer Mohammed Siraj was appointed as a Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) by the Telangana government after India's victorious T20 World Cup campaign.

The appointment was made under the state's sports policy to honour Siraj's contribution to Indian cricket. Besides the Group-I police post, the Telangana government also allotted him a residential plot.

Siraj has since been seen attending official functions in police uniform, earning him the popular nickname "DSP Siraj" among cricket fans.

KL Rahul Also Works with RBI

Senior India batter KL Rahul is also employed as an Assistant Manager in the Reserve Bank of India.

Rahul received the appointment through the sports quota during an RBI initiative aimed at encouraging sports talent while strengthening public engagement with young audiences.

He has previously featured in RBI promotional campaigns alongside other Indian cricketers.

Yuzvendra Chahal Is an Income Tax Officer

Leg-spinner Yuzvendra Chahal serves as an Income Tax Officer, a position he received in 2018 under the sports quota.

While continuing his professional cricket career, Chahal remains associated with the Income Tax Department, joining several other Indian athletes employed by government institutions.

Joginder Sharma Continues as Haryana DSP

Former India fast bowler Joginder Sharma, remembered for bowling the final over in India's victorious 2007 ICC T20 World Cup final, serves as a Deputy Superintendent of Police in Haryana.

Over the years, Joginder has actively participated in police duties, including disaster relief operations during floods in Haryana, where photographs of him assisting rescue teams received widespread appreciation.

Rinku Singh Appointed Regional Sports Officer

Explosive middle-order batter Rinku Singh was recently appointed as a Regional Sports Officer by the Uttar Pradesh government.

The appointment came in recognition of his performances for India and domestic cricket. Along with the government post, Rinku was also honoured with a financial reward of ₹3 crore.

Honorary Military Ranks for Indian Legends

Several legendary Indian cricketers have also received honorary appointments in the armed forces.

Former World Cup-winning captain Kapil Dev was conferred the honorary rank of Lieutenant Colonel in the Indian Army in 2008.

Cricket icon Sachin Tendulkar became the first sportsperson without an aviation background to receive the honorary rank of Group Captain in the Indian Air Force in 2010.

Former India captain MS Dhoni, known for his deep association with the armed forces, was awarded the honorary rank of Lieutenant Colonel in the Territorial Army following India's 2011 ODI World Cup triumph.

Recognition Beyond Cricket

Government appointments through sports quotas continue to recognise athletes for their contribution to the nation while providing career security beyond their sporting years. From banking and taxation to policing and public administration, several Indian cricketers have successfully combined their professional sporting careers with public service, highlighting the growing recognition of excellence in Indian sport.

The student-led agitation over alleged irregularities in competitive examinations in Jharkhand intensified on Tuesday as the protest entered its 12th day, with seven students now on indefinite hunger strike and organisers announcing a Vidhan Sabha gherao on August 7.

The movement, centred at Jaipal Singh Munda Stadium in Ranchi, has drawn growing public and political attention, with environmental activist Sonam Wangchuk intervening through a video call to persuade one of the fasting students to resume drinking water after concerns over his deteriorating health.

The protesters are demanding an independent investigation into alleged irregularities in examinations conducted by the Jharkhand Public Service Commission (JPSC), JSSC-CGL, and other recruitment bodies. They have also sought a CBI probe into the alleged paper leak and recruitment scam.

Hunger Strike Continues

Student leader Devendra Nath Mahto, who has been on an indefinite hunger strike since August 2, continues his protest despite worsening health. Medical teams attending the site administered saline after his blood pressure and sugar levels dropped. He has reportedly been suffering from dehydration, weakness and body pain.

Speaking during a video interaction with Sonam Wangchuk, Mahto said students had been protesting since July 25 and alleged that examination papers had been leaking in the state for decades.

Concerned over the health risks, Wangchuk urged the hunger strikers to consume water, warning that continuing a waterless fast could prove life-threatening. Following the appeal, fellow protester Brahmanand Kumar, who had also been observing a waterless fast, agreed to drink water while continuing his indefinite hunger strike.

More Students Join Protest

The protest has continued despite persistent rainfall in Ranchi. Besides Mahto and Brahmanand Kumar, student leaders Sabita Kumari, Archana Kumari, Rahul Kranti, Rupesh Kumar, and Umme Habiba have also joined the hunger strike.

Brahmanand Kumar said he had appeared for several state recruitment examinations, including JSSC CGL, JPSC FRO, ACF, and Field Worker recruitment tests, but alleged that each recruitment process had been marred by irregularities.

Assembly Gherao Announced

The All India Students' Association (AISA) has announced a march to the Jharkhand Assembly on August 7, calling for wider public participation in the movement.

The organisation said students from different districts are being mobilised to participate in the demonstration. JNU Students' Union President Neha Bora is also expected to join the protest.

AISA leaders Vibha Pushpa Deep and Trilokinath urged the state government to initiate dialogue with students and provide concrete assurances regarding their demands.

Separately, the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) has also announced its own protest march from DSPMU Morabadi to Albert Ekka Chowk.

Support From Political Leaders

The agitation has begun receiving support from political leaders across party lines.

MLA Jayram Mahto visited the protest site and said he would continue performing his legislative duties while standing with students outside the Assembly. Former MLA Amba Prasad also expressed solidarity with the movement.

Former Chief Minister Raghuvar Das has written to Chief Minister Hemant Soren, demanding a CBI investigation into the allegations raised by students.

Mathematics educator Abhinay Sharma visited the protest venue and encouraged students to continue their democratic movement for systemic reforms. Hindutva leader Bhairav Singh also extended support to the agitation.

Bollywood actor Sonakshi Sinha voiced concern over the issue through a social media post, describing the difficulties faced by students as "sad."

Government Assures Action

Chief Minister Hemant Soren said the state government is closely monitoring the situation and will take a decision after examining the students' demands.

He said multiple inquiries are currently underway and that any irregularities identified during the investigation would be acted upon in accordance with the law. The Chief Minister expressed hope that the government's response would address students' concerns.

With hunger strikes continuing, wider student mobilisation planned, and political support growing, the protest is expected to remain one of Jharkhand's major political and public issues in the coming days.

Parliament witnessed another day of political confrontation on Tuesday as Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju held discussions with Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi on the proposed Delimitation Bill, while Opposition parties intensified protests over the alleged Ram Mandir donation theft case and the July 20 action against protesters.

According to Congress sources, Rijiju met Rahul Gandhi in Parliament to understand the Congress party's position on the proposed Delimitation Bill. The meeting comes amid indications that the Centre is seeking wider political consultations before moving ahead with the legislation.

The discussion took place even as both Houses of Parliament continued to face repeated disruptions during the ongoing Monsoon Session.

Opposition Continues Protest

Leaders of the INDIA bloc, including Rahul Gandhi, Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge and several Opposition MPs, marched from the Gandhi statue to Makar Dwar inside the Parliament complex, raising slogans against the government.

The Opposition demanded answers over the alleged Ram Mandir donation theft and sought a statement from Union Home Minister Amit Shah in Parliament. Opposition parties also protested over the police action against demonstrators at Jantar Mantar on July 20, alleging excessive use of force.

Congress MP KC Venugopal accused the government of avoiding a discussion on issues raised by the Opposition and reiterated the party's demand for a debate in Parliament. Priyanka Gandhi Vadra also called for accountability over the action taken against protesting students, saying those responsible for ordering the use of force should be identified.

Lok Sabha Adjourned Amid Uproar

The Lok Sabha convened at 11 am but was adjourned within minutes due to continuous protests by Opposition members. Proceedings resumed later in the afternoon before the House was eventually adjourned for the day.

Meanwhile, the Rajya Sabha continued legislative business despite intermittent disruptions. The Upper House took up discussion on the Supreme Court (Number of Judges) Amendment Bill, 2026, introduced by Union Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal.

Rajya Sabha Debates Judicial Reforms

Members across party lines supported increasing the strength of Supreme Court judges, while also highlighting broader concerns relating to judicial reforms.

AAP MP Sanjay Singh drew attention to the large number of pending court cases and argued that increasing the number of judges alone would not solve delays unless judicial infrastructure was also strengthened.

DMK MP P. Wilson advocated the establishment of regional benches of the Supreme Court, arguing that litigants from southern states continue to face difficulties in accessing justice due to the court's location in New Delhi.

JMM MP Mahua Maji stressed the need for broader reforms in the justice delivery system, while BJP MP Kesridevsinh Jhala described the proposed legislation as a necessary step to improve judicial efficiency.

Political Exchanges Continue

Outside Parliament, BJP and Opposition leaders exchanged sharp criticism over multiple issues.

BJP MP Bansuri Swaraj accused Rahul Gandhi of pursuing "politics based on allegations" and questioned the Congress party's stand on student-related issues.

Congress leaders, on the other hand, maintained that the government was avoiding discussions on issues raised by the Opposition, including the alleged donation theft case and recent protests.

Centre Pushes Political Outreach

The meeting between Kiren Rijiju and Rahul Gandhi is being viewed as part of the government's outreach to Opposition parties ahead of the proposed Delimitation Bill.

While details of the discussion were not officially disclosed, Congress sources said the minister sought to understand the party's views on the legislation before any further parliamentary steps.

With both legislative business and political protests continuing simultaneously, Parliament's Monsoon Session remains marked by frequent disruptions alongside negotiations on key pending Bills.

The conflict involving Iran has delivered a massive financial windfall to the global energy industry, with the world's six largest oil companies collectively earning $81 billion (around ₹7 lakh crore) during the April–June quarter, even as geopolitical tensions continue to disrupt shipping through the Strait of Hormuz and the Red Sea.

According to an Al Jazeera report, the combined quarterly profits of the six energy majors exceeded India's annual defence budget of ₹6.81 lakh crore, underscoring how rising crude prices during the conflict significantly boosted corporate earnings.

The Iran war pushed Brent crude prices from nearly $70 per barrel to almost $120 per barrel between April and June, with average prices rising by around 23 per cent during the period. The surge translated into higher fuel, transportation and commodity prices across global markets, adding to inflationary pressures in several economies.

Oil Prices Ease on Diplomatic Hopes

Despite the sharp gains recorded during the conflict, crude prices have retreated in recent sessions amid growing optimism over a possible diplomatic breakthrough between the United States and Iran.

US benchmark West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude fell nearly 5 per cent to around $76.32 per barrel, while Brent crude slipped below the $80 per barrel mark as markets reacted positively to reports of progress in negotiations concerning the Strait of Hormuz.

Investors remain focused on efforts to restore normal shipping through one of the world's most critical energy corridors, through which nearly one-fifth of global oil supplies pass.

Hormuz Negotiations Enter Final Phase

Negotiations between Iran and Oman over future shipping arrangements in the Strait of Hormuz are reportedly entering their final stages.

According to reports, the proposed framework would introduce new navigation rules under which vessels entering Iranian waters would remain under Tehran's observation, while outbound ships would transit through Omani-controlled routes after obtaining clearance. Iran would also retain the authority to inspect vessels whenever it considers necessary.

Iranian media have also referred to discussions on developing a new "Middle Corridor", a proposed maritime route intended to reduce congestion and lower the risk of confrontations in the strategically important waterway.

Tehran has indicated that any long-term arrangement should also involve relief from certain US sanctions affecting its ports, while Washington continues to push for the complete reopening of the Strait to ensure uninterrupted global energy supplies.

Shipping Activity Remains Below Normal

Commercial shipping through both the Strait of Hormuz and the Bab-el-Mandeb Strait remains significantly below normal levels.

Recent maritime data showed that vessel movements through Hormuz dropped from 19 ships to 15 within a day, while traffic through the Bab-el-Mandeb Strait declined to 21 vessels, marking the lowest daily movement recorded since early June.

Reports also indicated that a cargo vessel came under a suspected missile or drone attack near the Omani coast, highlighting the continuing security risks facing commercial shipping in the region.

Regional Security Situation Remains Volatile

The broader regional security environment also remains fragile.

In southern Lebanon, negotiations between Israeli and Lebanese officials continue in Rome over a possible Israeli troop withdrawal. However, both sides remain divided over the conditions for implementing any agreement, particularly concerning Hezbollah's military infrastructure and verification mechanisms.

Meanwhile, an Indian-flagged merchant vessel recently sank after being attacked near Yemen in the Red Sea. All 13 Indian crew members were rescued safely.

In Iran, political uncertainty has also intensified, with reports suggesting that a group of lawmakers is preparing impeachment proceedings against Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi over his diplomatic engagement with the United States.

Markets Watch Diplomatic Outcome

Energy markets are expected to remain highly sensitive to developments surrounding the Strait of Hormuz. Any breakthrough capable of restoring normal maritime traffic could help stabilise crude prices, while any escalation in hostilities risks triggering fresh volatility in global oil markets.