The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) is investigating a serious safety incident involving an Air India flight from Phuket to Delhi, after the pilot-in-command allegedly left the cockpit during the flight and attempted to smoke inside the passenger cabin, according to reports.

The incident reportedly came to light after the aircraft experienced a sudden drop in altitude, injuring 20 passengers and four cabin crew members.

According to a Times of India report, the pilot allegedly entered the passenger cabin, sat on the floor near an emergency exit and asked members of the cabin crew for a lighter. Crew members reportedly intervened and asked him to return to the cockpit.

The circumstances surrounding the pilot's alleged conduct are now part of the DGCA investigation.

Flight Suffered Sudden Altitude Drop

The incident occurred during the Phuket-Delhi flight when the aircraft reportedly lost around 300 feet in altitude.

The sudden change in altitude resulted in injuries to passengers and crew members onboard.

The DGCA subsequently began examining the circumstances of the incident, including the aircraft's operation, the actions of the cockpit crew and the events surrounding the altitude change.

The alleged conduct of the pilot inside the passenger cabin has added another dimension to the investigation.

Pilot Tests Positive for Marijuana

The pilot-in-command has reportedly tested positive for marijuana in a confirmatory laboratory test, according to CNN-News18.

Both pilots underwent mandatory psychoactive-substance screening following the incident.

The initial screening of the pilot-in-command reportedly required further confirmation, following which the sample was sent to a designated laboratory. The confirmatory test subsequently returned a positive result for marijuana.

The pilot has reportedly told investigators that he had been taking prescribed sleeping medication because of personal problems and suggested that the medication may have contributed to the test result.

That explanation is now being examined as part of the investigation, and no final conclusion has been reached regarding the cause of the positive test.

Both Pilots Removed From Duty

Air India has removed both pilots from flying duties while the investigation continues.

The airline said it follows a zero-tolerance policy towards behaviour that could compromise the safety of passengers and crew members.

Air India has also said it is cooperating with the DGCA investigation.

The action comes as aviation authorities increase scrutiny of safety procedures and psychoactive-substance testing involving flight crew.

Government Orders Review

The Ministry of Civil Aviation has taken a serious view of the incident.

Aviation Secretary Samir Sinha has asked Air India to take responsibility for the matter and said that anyone found guilty following the investigation would face action.

The government has also directed the DGCA to review existing drug-testing procedures for pilots and other aviation personnel.

The review is expected to examine whether mandatory screening procedures need to be strengthened and whether tougher penalties should be introduced for confirmed violations.

Authorities have also called for further assessment of cases where prescribed medicines could potentially affect test results.

Air India CEO Questioned

The incident comes at a time when the government is already increasing scrutiny of Air India's safety and operational practices.

Outgoing Air India CEO Campbell Wilson was summoned to the Ministry of Civil Aviation headquarters on Tuesday.

Officials reportedly questioned Wilson about the AI2379 incident and discussed broader safety and operational concerns involving the airline.

The meeting forms part of the government's wider review of Air India's operations as aviation authorities examine recent incidents involving the carrier.

DGCA Probe Underway

The DGCA investigation will determine the circumstances surrounding the flight, including the reported cockpit departure, the alleged attempt to smoke in the cabin and the pilot's reported drug-test result.

Investigators will also examine whether aviation regulations or airline safety procedures were breached.

Until the inquiry is completed, the allegations against the pilot remain subject to investigation. The final findings will determine whether disciplinary or regulatory action is warranted.

The United States has signalled that the growing dispute over India’s purchase of Russian oil could be resolved through direct engagement between US President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

White House Trade Adviser Peter Navarro said on Tuesday that the two leaders have a strong working relationship and would be able to address the disagreement surrounding Washington’s proposed tariff action against countries buying Russian oil. His comments came as the US weighs tougher economic measures targeting major purchasers of Russian crude. (Outlook India)

Navarro Signals Direct Resolution

Navarro expressed confidence that Trump and Modi would “work it out”, pointing to what he described as a good relationship between the two leaders.

His remarks are significant because the issue has emerged as a fresh point of tension in India-US economic relations. Washington has been pressing countries that continue purchasing Russian energy to reduce transactions that, according to US policymakers, provide Moscow with revenue during the Russia-Ukraine conflict.

The latest comments from Navarro, however, suggest that Washington still sees room for negotiations rather than an immediate escalation of the tariff dispute. (Moneycontrol)

100% Tariff Threat

The development follows the US Senate’s passage of legislation that would authorise the President to impose tariffs of up to 100 per cent on major purchasers of Russian oil.

India is among the countries that could be affected because it has remained a significant buyer of Russian crude. The proposed measures are part of wider US efforts to increase economic pressure on Moscow over the Ukraine war.

The legislation still faces further steps before it can become enforceable policy, meaning the exact impact on India will depend on subsequent legislative and executive action. (Moneycontrol)

India's Russian Oil Purchases

India has substantially increased its purchases of Russian crude since Western sanctions disrupted traditional energy trade following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

For Indian refiners, Russian oil has offered an important source of competitively priced crude. New Delhi has consistently maintained that its energy purchases are guided by national interests and energy security.

Any significant tariff imposed on India because of Russian oil imports could therefore have implications beyond bilateral trade, potentially affecting the cost structure of Indian exporters and the broader economic relationship between New Delhi and Washington.

Pressure on India-US Ties

The Russian oil issue comes against the backdrop of wider negotiations between India and the US over trade and tariffs.

Washington’s proposed measures have raised concerns in New Delhi because punitive tariffs could make Indian products more expensive in the American market and potentially affect exporters across several sectors.

At the same time, both countries have strategic interests in maintaining cooperation in areas including defence, technology, investment and supply-chain diversification.

Navarro’s latest comments could therefore be viewed as an indication that the administration wants to keep space open for a negotiated settlement. (The Economic Times)

Trump-Modi Relationship in Focus

Navarro specifically highlighted the relationship between Trump and Modi while discussing the tariff dispute.

The statement comes at a sensitive moment for bilateral ties, with economic disagreements developing alongside continued strategic engagement between the two countries.

Whether direct discussions between the two leaders lead to a modification of the proposed tariff measures will depend on negotiations and the final shape of US policy on Russian energy purchases.

What Happens Next

For India, the immediate focus will be on how Washington implements the proposed sanctions and tariff framework and whether exemptions, negotiations or other arrangements are considered.

The US legislation is aimed at increasing pressure on countries that continue buying Russian energy, but the potential economic consequences for major trading partners make the issue politically and diplomatically sensitive.

Navarro’s remarks indicate that the Trump administration does not view the disagreement with India as unmanageable. With both sides maintaining important strategic and economic ties, the coming weeks are likely to determine whether the Russian oil dispute results in tougher trade measures or a negotiated solution.

Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) founder Abhijeet Dipke has announced a nationwide campaign to push for better basic facilities in government schools across rural India, calling on parents to conduct social audits and village heads to take responsibility for improving school infrastructure.

The campaign, which is scheduled to begin on August 15, will focus on facilities such as drinking water, electricity, functional toilets and mid-day meals. Dipke said the initiative would begin from his village in Hingoli, Maharashtra, where he plans to approach the village head and seek improvements at government schools.

Campaign to Begin on August 15

Announcing the initiative on Monday, Dipke said Independence Day should be used as an opportunity to address issues affecting children in rural areas.

He argued that while major public infrastructure projects have been developed over the years, government schools in villages have continued to face shortages of basic facilities.

“The coming 15th August is our 80th Independence Day. But, if anything has been neglected or ignored the most in the last 80 years, it is the government schools in our villages,” Dipke said in a video message.

He questioned why children of farmers and labourers should not have access to schools with facilities comparable to those available in cities.

Focus on Basic School Facilities

As part of the campaign, CJP has appealed to sarpanches across the country to inspect and improve government schools in their respective villages.

Dipke highlighted issues such as children having to travel long distances to reach schools and the lack of basic amenities once they arrive.

He particularly pointed to the absence of drinking water and toilets, which can create additional difficulties for girl students.

“I feel that on this 15th August, if we should pay attention to anything, if we should make a new start, we should start by improving our government schools,” he said.

CJP Launches ‘Sarpanch Challenge’

The organisation has also announced what it calls a “Sarpanch Challenge”, under which village heads who improve government schools will be publicly recognised.

According to the campaign plan, CJP will share before-and-after photographs of schools on its social media platforms and give credit to the sarpanches responsible for the improvements.

Dipke said the idea was to encourage other village leaders to follow successful examples.

“We will give you credit so that after seeing you, after seeing the schools that you have improved, many other village heads also start improving schools in their villages,” he said.

Parents Asked to Conduct Social Audits

The campaign also proposes a citizen-led social audit of government schools.

Parents whose children attend government schools have been asked to visit the institutions and check whether essential facilities are available. The proposed audit will cover electricity, clean drinking water, functional washrooms and mid-day meals.

Dipke urged parents to document shortcomings through photographs and videos.

The CJP said it would soon release a printable audit form that citizens can use to record facilities available at their children's schools and those that are missing. The organisation plans to share the form through links accompanying its campaign videos.

Campaign Targets Rural Education Gap

The initiative aims to draw attention to differences in school infrastructure between rural and urban areas.

Dipke said children from farming and working-class families should have access to adequate educational facilities in their own villages.

“If not, you make videos of it. Because your children's schooling should be good. That is your fundamental right,” he said.

The campaign will also rely on public participation, with citizens encouraged to document problems and submit information to the organisation.

CJP’s Shift Towards Youth Movement

The school campaign comes as CJP continues to develop its activities after beginning as an online satirical platform and later expanding its presence through street-level protests.

The organisation's 36-day agitation at Jantar Mantar in Delhi over examination-related irregularities ended on July 25 following the resignation of then Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.

Earlier this month, CJP held a two-day strategy meeting in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, Maharashtra, where it decided to continue as a youth movement rather than enter electoral politics.

The organisation has also announced its “Kya Bolti Public?” campaign as part of a proposed nationwide outreach programme.

Dipke has previously urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to use his Independence Day address to speak specifically to the country's youth.

Concluding his latest campaign announcement, Dipke appealed to citizens to collectively work towards improving village schools and described the initiative with the message: “Real India lives in villages.”

An Air India Airbus A320 flying from Phuket to Delhi suffered a sudden loss of altitude after multiple cockpit warnings indicated a possible stall, with an internal safety report revealing that the aircraft also recorded abnormal indications across its hydraulic systems.

Flight AI-2379, carrying 137 passengers and eight crew members, was operating on August 4 when the aircraft abruptly lost about 300 feet of altitude during cruise. At least 20 passengers and four crew members were injured in the incident.

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has classified the episode as a serious incident, while the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) is examining what caused the aircraft to pitch sharply upward before the pilots carried out a stall-recovery manoeuvre.

Stall warning triggered

According to an internal Air India Flight Safety report accessed by NDTV, the captain was standing behind the first officer's seat and discussing the aircraft's air-conditioning system when multiple warnings appeared in the cockpit.

The aircraft's autopilot disengaged and its nose pitched upward. At the same time, aural warnings and alerts on the Electronic Centralised Aircraft Monitor (ECAM) indicated a stall condition.

The first officer, who was flying the aircraft at the time, responded with a standard stall-recovery action by pushing the nose down to regain airspeed.

The manoeuvre resulted in a sharp negative-g excursion, briefly causing the aircraft to experience conditions in which occupants and loose objects in the cockpit became effectively weightless.

Aircraft descended 300 feet

The captain's account in the report describes being thrown upward along with loose objects in the cockpit. He reportedly helped steady the first officer before moving back towards his seat.

Once strapped in, the captain took control of the aircraft and applied maximum continuous thrust to arrest the loss of airspeed and altitude.

The aircraft ultimately lost a maximum of approximately 300 feet before recovering.

An amber warning subsequently indicated that the aircraft had exceeded its negative-1g structural limit during the event.

Multiple hydraulic warnings recorded

The incident took a more serious turn when engineering data showed unusual indications from the aircraft's three hydraulic systems.

According to the report, the aircraft recorded low-pressure indications involving the Green, Blue and Yellow hydraulic systems within the same minute. The systems are designed to operate independently and provide redundancy for critical aircraft functions.

The aircraft also recorded an elevator fault and autopilot disengagement.

Investigators are examining whether a problem involving the elevator or hydraulic systems contributed to the sudden pitch-up that preceded the stall warning.

Hydraulic systems are crucial to an aircraft because pressurised hydraulic fluid powers several major functions, including flight-control surfaces, landing gear and braking systems.

Additional cockpit cautions appeared

After the aircraft stabilised, the crew notified air traffic control and began checking the various warnings.

A "door arm forward emergency" caution appeared on the ECAM and reportedly reappeared twice. The pilots followed the relevant manufacturer procedures and checklists before determining that the warnings could have been spurious.

A separate transient hydraulic caution was also recorded and cleared through the aircraft's reset procedure.

The pilots eventually decided to continue to Delhi and landed the aircraft safely.

Passengers and crew injured

Following the incident, the captain left the cockpit to assess the condition of passengers and crew members.

He was informed that several passengers and two cabin crew members had suffered serious injuries. Some cabin equipment was also damaged during the sudden aircraft movement.

The crew requested an ambulance, medical personnel and orthopaedic specialists to be available after landing. They also requested a parking position closer to the runway exit to facilitate the evacuation of injured passengers.

The aircraft eventually landed safely in Delhi.

AAIB, DGCA investigating incident

The AAIB has begun a detailed investigation into the incident under the framework of Annex 13 of the International Civil Aviation Organisation.

Airbus and France's Bureau of Enquiry and Analysis for Civil Aviation Safety (BEA) are providing technical assistance.

The Ministry of Civil Aviation said investigators are examining technical, operational, medical and human-factor evidence. This includes aircraft systems, recorded flight data, maintenance records, medical information and interviews with people connected to the incident.

The ministry has stressed that no final conclusion should be drawn until all available evidence has been examined.

Pilot drug-test reports emerge

The investigation has also drawn attention to the pilots' mandatory post-flight psychoactive substance screening.

According to sources cited in media reports, the first officer tested negative, while the captain reportedly failed two tests for marijuana.

Both pilots have reportedly been removed from flight duty pending further investigation.

The reported test results are separate from the technical investigation into the aircraft's sudden pitch-up, hydraulic indications and loss of altitude. Investigators are expected to examine all relevant operational and human factors before determining the cause of the incident.

Air India and ministry under scrutiny

Air India's outgoing CEO Campbell Wilson met senior Ministry of Civil Aviation officials following the incident.

Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu said aviation safety remains the ministry's highest priority and that the incident was being taken seriously.

The investigation will now focus on whether the aircraft's hydraulic and elevator indications were connected to the sudden pitch change, why the stall warning was triggered and whether any additional technical or human factors contributed to the event.

Until the AAIB completes its investigation, the precise cause of the 300-foot descent remains under examination.

More than 100 workers of the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) were detained in Ranchi on Tuesday during a protest march towards the Jharkhand Assembly, as student groups continued demonstrations over alleged irregularities in recruitment examinations and the police action during an earlier protest.

The ABVP members began their procession from the Old Vidhan Sabha area and attempted to march towards the New Vidhan Sabha, a senior police officer said. The detention came a day after police used water cannons and lathis to disperse JPSC and JSSC aspirants during a "Vidhan Sabha gherao" protest in Ranchi.

ABVP March Stopped in Ranchi

The ABVP organised Tuesday's march to highlight the demands being raised by students and competitive examination aspirants in the state.

Police deployed personnel and barricades along the route as the protesters moved towards the Assembly. More than 100 ABVP workers were detained after they attempted to proceed towards the designated security zone, according to officials.

The demonstrations are part of a wider student movement over alleged irregularities in recruitment examinations conducted by state agencies.

Students Demand Action on Exams

JPSC and JSSC aspirants have been demanding action over alleged irregularities in competitive examinations and recruitment procedures.

Among the demands raised by protesters is a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) inquiry into the alleged irregularities. Some protesters have also sought cancellation of the JSSC CGL examination.

Students have accused the state government of failing to fully address their concerns and have continued to press for greater transparency in the recruitment process.

Police Used Water Cannons, Lathis

The latest protest follows Monday's confrontation between police and student protesters in Ranchi.

A group of JPSC and JSSC aspirants had marched towards the Jharkhand Assembly as part of a "Vidhan Sabha gherao" programme. Heavy barricading was put in place to stop the protesters from reaching the Assembly.

When some protesters attempted to cross the barricades, police used water cannons. Clashes subsequently broke out, after which police resorted to a lathi charge to disperse the crowd.

The police action triggered criticism from opposition leaders and intensified the political debate surrounding the student protests.

Rahul Gandhi Condemns Police Action

Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi criticised the police action against the protesting students.

He said peaceful student protests should not be met with violence and expressed support for the students' right to raise their concerns.

His remarks also provided fresh ammunition to the political opposition, which has been targeting the Jharkhand government over its handling of the demonstrations.

BJP Targets Hemant Soren Government

The BJP has stepped up its criticism of the Hemant Soren-led government over the protests.

Babulal Marandi, Leader of Opposition in the Jharkhand Assembly, urged the Congress to withdraw its support to the state government if it genuinely backed the demands of protesting students.

The BJP has also demanded action over the alleged police excesses and called for a CBI investigation into the examination-related allegations.

The Congress, meanwhile, has faced criticism from the BJP because it is part of the governing arrangement in Jharkhand while its national leaders have criticised police action against students.

Goa BJP Alleges Congress Double Standards

The political dispute has also spread beyond Jharkhand.

Goa BJP leaders on Tuesday accused the Congress of adopting "double standards" over student protests. BJP MLA and state minister Mauvin Godinho alleged that Congress leaders had strongly backed student protests in other parts of the country while remaining silent over the situation in Jharkhand.

Godinho demanded an apology from Rahul Gandhi and questioned the Congress's position on the issue.

Student Movement Continues

The continuing protests have put pressure on the Jharkhand government to respond to concerns raised by examination aspirants.

The immediate focus remains on allegations of irregularities in recruitment examinations, demands for an independent investigation and the conduct of future examinations.

With political parties now intensifying their interventions, the student agitation has evolved into a wider political issue in the state. Further demonstrations and negotiations between student representatives and the government are expected as protesters continue to seek action on their demands.

The second and final solar eclipse of 2026 will occur on Wednesday, August 12, with the celestial event beginning at 9:04 PM IST. The eclipse will continue into the early hours of August 13, reaching its peak at 11:16 PMand ending at 1:27 AM. 

The August 12 eclipse is a total solar eclipse, meaning the Moon will completely cover the Sun along the narrow path of totality. However, skywatchers in India will not be able to see the eclipse because it will occur below the Indian horizon during the relevant period. 

Solar Eclipse Timing in India

According to the timings reported for the event, the eclipse will begin at 9:04 PM on August 12 according to Indian Standard Time.

The key timings are:

• Eclipse begins: 9:04 PM, August 12

• Peak of eclipse: 11:16 PM, August 12

• Eclipse ends: 1:27 AM, August 13

• Total duration: Around 4 hours 23 minutes

The global astronomical timings place the beginning of the partial eclipse at around 15:34 UTC, with the maximum eclipse occurring at approximately 17:46 UTC. (Time and Date)

Will India See the Eclipse?

No. The August 12 solar eclipse will not be visible from India.

The eclipse's visibility path is concentrated across parts of the Arctic region, Greenland, Iceland, northern Russia, Spain and Portugal, while a partial eclipse will be visible from much of Europe and parts of North America and northwestern Africa. 

Since the Sun will not be above the horizon in India during the relevant phase, people across Indian cities will not be able to observe the phenomenon directly.

Why Is This Eclipse Special?

The August 12 event is significant because it is a total solar eclipse, one of the most striking astronomical events visible from Earth.

During totality, the Moon moves directly between the Earth and Sun and completely blocks the Sun's bright disk for observers located within the path of totality. This can cause daytime darkness for a short period and make the solar corona visible.

NASA has also announced coverage of the eclipse for people outside the visibility path. Its official broadcast is scheduled to begin on August 12, allowing viewers worldwide to follow the event remotely. 

Eclipse and Religious Beliefs in India

The eclipse coincides with Hariyali Amavasya, the new moon day observed during the Shravan month. This has also generated interest from a religious and astrology perspective.

According to reports based on traditional Hindu practices, because the eclipse will not be visible in India, Sutak Kaal is not considered applicable in India for this particular event. 

The scientific phenomenon and religious interpretations are separate matters. The eclipse itself is caused by the Moon passing between the Earth and the Sun, while Sutak-related practices are based on traditional religious beliefs.

Where Can the Eclipse Be Watched?

The total phase will be visible along a relatively narrow path. Spain is expected to be among the major locations offering a prominent view, while Iceland and Greenland will also fall within the broader path of totality. Parts of Europe will experience a partial eclipse. 

For people in India, the safest option is to watch an official livestream rather than attempting to observe the Sun directly.

Safety Precautions

Anyone observing a solar eclipse from a location where it is visible should never look directly at the Sun without proper solar viewing protection. Ordinary sunglasses are not sufficient to protect the eyes.

The Royal Museums Greenwich advises using certified eclipse glasses, a properly filtered solar telescope or safe projection methods.

For Indian viewers, who will not see the eclipse locally, an official online broadcast is the simplest way to follow the event.

The August 12 solar eclipse will therefore be a major astronomical spectacle for observers in its visibility zone, while in India the event will remain invisible despite occurring during the night in Indian Standard Time.

Facing growing opposition from political parties, State governments and civil society groups, the Centre is likely to move a resolution in the Lok Sabha on Wednesday to refer the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Amendment Bill, 2026 to a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) for detailed examination.

The development comes amid mounting demands for the withdrawal of the Bill in its current form. The Tamil Nadu Assembly on Tuesday passed a unanimous resolution urging the Centre to withdraw the legislation and conduct wider consultations with stakeholders. In Mizoram, large numbers of Christians also participated in a mass rally against the proposed changes.

Centre Considers JPC Route

According to sources, the Union government has informed its allies and other political parties that it intends to move a resolution in the Lok Sabha seeking referral of the FCRA Bill to a JPC.

The move could provide the government with an opportunity to examine the contentious provisions in greater detail and hear representations from affected organisations and stakeholders before the legislation progresses further.

Congress general secretary and Rajya Sabha Chief Whip Jairam Ramesh pointed out that the Bill was not listed in the day's agenda and said the Opposition wanted the legislation withdrawn.

Tamil Nadu Assembly Passes Resolution

The Tamil Nadu Assembly's resolution has added to the political pressure surrounding the proposed legislation.

Moving the resolution, Tamil Nadu Minister Rajamohan said the Assembly was "deeply concerned" about provisions dealing with the transfer, management and sale of assets belonging to charitable organisations.

The concerns specifically relate to situations in which an organisation's FCRA registration expires, is not renewed, is cancelled or is surrendered.

Concerns Over Charitable Organisations

The Tamil Nadu government has argued that the proposed provisions could affect the autonomy of charitable organisations operating in the country.

The Assembly resolution particularly highlighted educational and social welfare institutions run by minority communities, saying the provisions could adversely affect their functioning.

It urged the Centre to undertake comprehensive consultations with all stakeholders, including State governments, before proceeding with the legislation.

Mizoram Witnesses Mass Rally

The proposed amendments have also triggered protests in Mizoram, where Christians held a mass rally in the State capital.

The mobilisation reflects concerns among sections of the Christian community and organisations that the proposed changes could have implications for institutions and organisations that receive foreign contributions for charitable, educational and social welfare activities.

The protests have added a regional dimension to the debate over the Bill.

Opposition Seeks Withdrawal

The Opposition has criticised the proposed legislation and questioned the government's decision to introduce changes to the FCRA framework.

Congress leaders have maintained that the Bill should be withdrawn rather than being pushed through without adequate consultation.

The Opposition is also expected to raise concerns over provisions that could potentially affect the functioning and assets of organisations dependent on foreign contributions.

What Happens Next

If the government moves the resolution in the Lok Sabha, the JPC will examine the Bill and can seek views and submissions from political parties, government departments, State governments, experts and other stakeholders.

The committee's recommendations could lead to changes in the legislation before it is brought back for parliamentary consideration.

The proposed referral is therefore likely to delay the Bill's immediate legislative progress while providing a formal mechanism to examine the concerns raised by different sections.

The controversy surrounding the FCRA Bill has meanwhile widened beyond Parliament, with State-level opposition in Tamil Nadu and street protests in Mizoram putting additional pressure on the Centre to address concerns over the proposed changes.

At least five people were killed after a landslide struck a residential area in Mumbai's Ghatkopar early Wednesday morning, while rescue teams continued an intensive search for people feared trapped beneath the debris.

The incident occurred around 3:48 am at Gaushiya Chawl in Chirag Nagar, Ghatkopar, according to information shared by the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation's (BMC) Mumbai Fire Brigade. A portion of a hillside collapsed, sending debris onto two to three houses in the densely populated area.

Five People Killed

Officials said five people had died in the incident. Four to five others were initially feared trapped under the rubble as rescue teams began clearing the collapsed material.

The operation involves personnel from the Mumbai Fire Brigade, Mumbai Police and the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF).

Specialised victim-detection cameras are being used to search the debris for signs of life, allowing rescuers to inspect areas that cannot be accessed immediately through conventional methods.

Rescue Operation Underway

Rescue teams have been working through the debris while authorities assess the stability of the affected hillside and surrounding structures.

Officials said the exact number of people trapped could not immediately be confirmed. DCP Ganesh Shinde said three to four people were suspected to remain trapped beneath the debris as the operation continued.

The bodies recovered from the site were sent to a hospital for further procedures. Police said further legal action and investigation would follow.

Two Injured in Hospital

Two people injured in the landslide were taken to hospital and were reported to be stable.

They were identified as 18-year-old Sohel Ansari, who suffered a head injury, and 14-year-old Mohamad Ansari, who sustained a back injury.

Medical teams are continuing to monitor their condition.

Civic Officials Visit Site

BMC Mayor Ritu Tawde and Additional Municipal Commissioner (Eastern Suburbs) Avinash Dhakne visited the affected location in Ghatkopar to assess the situation and review the rescue operation.

Tawde also announced financial assistance of ₹3 lakh for the families of those who died in the landslide. The assistance will be provided through the District Collector's Office.

Authorities are coordinating the rescue effort while continuing to assess the condition of nearby houses and the surrounding hillside.

Investigation to Follow

The landslide has raised concerns over safety in the densely populated hillside settlement, particularly during the monsoon season when heavy rainfall can increase the risk of slope failures.

Police and civic authorities are expected to investigate the circumstances leading to the collapse and assess whether any structural or environmental factors contributed to the incident.

For now, the priority remains locating anyone who may still be trapped and completing the rescue operation safely.

Former MP Prajwal Revanna, who is serving a life sentence in Karnataka's Parappana Agrahara Central Prison, was found with a mobile phone and a pen drive during a jail raid on Wednesday, August 12. Prison officials have registered a fresh case under the Prisons Act, while an assistant superintendent has been suspended and an inquiry launched into how the prohibited items entered the facility. 

Phone, Pen Drive Recovered

According to officials, a blue Android mobile phone, pen drive, charger and diary were recovered from Revanna during a raid at the Bengaluru prison.

Another inmate, identified as Prathap Rai, was also named in the case. The complaint was filed by Central Crime Branch police inspector Subramanya, following which a case was registered at the Parappana Agrahara police station under Section 42 of the Prisons Act. 

The raid reportedly continued for around four to five hours. Officials said no other contraband was found during the operation.

Prison Official Suspended

The incident has prompted action against prison authorities.

Alok Kumar, DGP, Prisons and Correctional Services, said the concerned assistant superintendent had been suspended following a report from the DIG South. A show-cause notice has also been issued to the superintendent of Bengaluru Central Prison.

A detailed departmental inquiry is now underway to determine how the mobile phone and other prohibited items reached the prison. Investigators are also examining CCTV footage and collecting additional information before deciding on further disciplinary action. 

Revanna Serving Life Sentence

Prajwal Revanna, 34, is serving a life sentence after a special court in Karnataka convicted him in 2025 for repeatedly raping a 47-year-old domestic worker.

The case was the first among three rape cases and one sexual harassment case against Revanna to reach trial and result in a conviction, according to the report.

Revanna, a former Hassan MP and grandson of former Prime Minister H.D. Deve Gowda, was previously considered a prominent young leader of the Janata Dal (Secular). His conviction brought a major setback to his political career. 

CCTV Footage Under Scanner

Prison authorities are investigating whether any staff members were involved in allowing the prohibited items into the jail.

CCTV footage from the facility is being examined as part of the inquiry. Officials are also looking into the circumstances surrounding the recovery and whether there were lapses in prison security procedures.

The authorities have said further notices and disciplinary action could follow once the inquiry establishes responsibility.

Fresh Investigation Begins

The recovery of a mobile phone and pen drive from a high-profile inmate has raised fresh questions about security and monitoring inside the prison.

The new case is separate from the criminal proceedings that resulted in Revanna's conviction. The immediate investigation will focus on the possession of prohibited items and the possible route through which they entered the prison.

For now, the prison administration has initiated both a criminal case and an internal inquiry, with officials examining CCTV footage and other evidence before taking further action. 

The Supreme Court on Tuesday asked appellate tribunals dealing with voter appeals arising from West Bengal's Special Intensive Revision (SIR) process to speed up their work, with nearly 34 lakh appeals reportedly pending before the tribunals.

The court said the process of deciding the appeals cannot continue indefinitely and observed that it should not move so slowly that the next Assembly election arrives before the cases are resolved.

The matter came before a Bench headed by Chief Justice of India Surya Kant after a petition raised concerns over the pace at which the tribunals were disposing of appeals filed by people whose names were deleted from the electoral rolls during the SIR exercise. 

34 Lakh Appeals Pending

The large number of pending cases has emerged as a key concern in the legal challenge surrounding West Bengal's voter-roll revision.

The appeals have been filed by individuals seeking reconsideration of decisions involving their names on the electoral rolls. The tribunals were established following directions from the Supreme Court to provide a mechanism for affected voters to challenge deletions.

Petitioner and Congress leader Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury, represented by senior advocate Rauf Rahim, told the court that the progress in disposing of the appeals was "painfully slow" and required greater impetus.

SC Raises Concern Over Delay

The Supreme Court expressed concern over the pace of the proceedings but stopped short of imposing a specific deadline on the tribunals.

CJI Surya Kant indicated that the process needed to move considerably faster. The court's observation came in the context of the approaching electoral cycle and the need for appeals to be decided within a reasonable period.

The court stressed that the process could not become so prolonged that voters' appeals remained unresolved until another Assembly election was due. 

Why SIR Appeals Matter

The Special Intensive Revision exercise involves verification and revision of electoral rolls. During the process, names can be subjected to scrutiny, and people whose names are removed have the right to challenge such decisions through the prescribed mechanism.

For voters, the appeals are particularly significant because inclusion in the electoral roll determines their ability to exercise their franchise.

The large number of pending appeals has therefore become an important administrative and legal issue in the State.

Petition Seeks Faster Disposal

The petition before the Supreme Court highlighted the rate at which the tribunals were handling the appeals.

The petitioner argued that the existing pace could leave a substantial number of cases unresolved for a prolonged period. The court was asked to ensure that the appellate mechanism functions effectively and that affected voters are able to receive decisions within a reasonable timeframe.

The Supreme Court's response focused on the need for the tribunals to increase their disposal rate rather than setting a rigid deadline for every pending case. 

Electoral Roll Process Under Watch

The developments come amid continued political and legal attention on the electoral roll revision exercise in West Bengal.

The SIR process has generated debate over voter verification, deletions and the mechanisms available to people seeking restoration of their names.

With millions of appeals pending, the functioning of the tribunals is expected to remain under scrutiny.

The Supreme Court's latest direction puts the emphasis on quicker disposal while leaving the tribunals to determine the cases on their individual merits.

The selection process for the first full-time Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust has entered its final stage, with 18 candidates shortlisted from around 5,200 applications. The shortlisted candidates are being interviewed in Ayodhya as the Trust prepares to select a professional to oversee the temple's growing administrative operations. 

The move to appoint a full-time CEO comes amid increased attention on the administration and financial management of the Ram Temple Trust following allegations of irregularities and alleged embezzlement involving donation funds. The appointment is expected to strengthen administrative oversight and bring a dedicated executive structure to the Trust's operations. 

5,200 Applications Screened

According to reports, the selection committee screened more than 5,000 applications before narrowing the field to 18 candidates. The shortlisted applicants include people with experience in government administration, policing, the armed forces and temple management. 

The candidates are being assessed not only on their professional experience but also on their willingness to work from Ayodhya and their understanding of the responsibilities associated with managing the temple complex and its administration.

Former Bureaucrats in Race

The shortlist includes three former IAS officers, a former IPS officer and four retired military officers, according to reports based on sources familiar with the selection process. Some candidates have also held senior administrative positions at prominent temples in southern India. 

Former IPS officer Rajesh Pandey and former Ayodhya district magistrate Dinesh Chandra are among the names reported to be in contention for the position.

The diversity of the shortlist indicates that the Trust is looking for candidates with substantial experience in administration and institutional management rather than limiting the selection to a particular professional background.

Interviews Focus on Role and Values

The interviews have also attracted attention because candidates were reportedly asked questions relating to their personal habits and religious practices.

According to reports, candidates were asked whether they wear a janeu, whether they consume alcohol and whether they follow a vegetarian or non-vegetarian diet. Questions were also reportedly asked about their vision for the temple and how they would approach its future management. 

The selection process is being conducted at the Ram Temple's pilgrim facilitation centre in Ayodhya. All 18 shortlisted candidates reached the temple town ahead of the interviews.

Donation Row Adds Focus

The appointment of a full-time CEO comes at a time when the Trust's financial and administrative systems have come under increased public and political scrutiny.

Allegations concerning the handling of donations and reports of theft or embezzlement have intensified demands for greater accountability. The Trust's decision to create a dedicated CEO position is therefore being viewed as part of an effort to strengthen its administrative framework. 

The CEO will be expected to handle complex administrative responsibilities as the Ram Temple continues to attract large numbers of devotees and expands its wider facilities.

Three Names Expected for Final Selection

Following the interviews, the selection committee is expected to recommend three names to the Trust for consideration. The final decision will rest with the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust.

The appointment will be closely watched because the CEO will become the first full-time professional executive responsible for the Trust's administrative functioning.

With thousands of applications reduced to just 18 contenders, the selection has now entered its decisive phase. The final appointment is expected to determine how the Trust manages its growing operational, financial and visitor-related responsibilities in the years ahead.

Delhi Police have detained seven Bangladeshi nationals for allegedly overstaying in India beyond the period permitted under their visas. The action was carried out under Operation Vista, a visa verification drive conducted by the Anti-Auto Theft Squad (AATS) of the Central District.

Police said the seven individuals were identified during checks at hotels and guest houses in Central and South Delhi. According to officials, all seven had entered India on double-entry visas that permitted a maximum stay of 15 days per visit.

First Detention in Nabi Karim

The investigation began after police received information that some Bangladeshi nationals were allegedly staying in Delhi beyond their authorised period.

Police first detained 26-year-old MD Nazrul Islam Foisal from the Nabi Karim area.

According to officials, his passport was issued on February 8, 2026, while immigration records showed that his authorised stay in India was valid until August 7, 2026.

During questioning, police said Foisal provided information about other Bangladeshi nationals who were allegedly staying in Delhi beyond the permitted period.

Six More Held

Acting on the information, police conducted searches at locations in Sarita Vihar and detained six additional Bangladeshi nationals.

Officials said their passports, visas and immigration records were subsequently examined to establish their legal status in India.

Police said the verification found that all seven had entered the country on double-entry visas carrying a maximum permitted stay of 15 days for each visit.

No Criminal Record Found

Delhi Police said no previous criminal involvement was found against any of the seven individuals during the verification process.

The police action was focused on alleged violations of visa conditions rather than any separate criminal case, officials said.

The operation was conducted by the AATS of Central District under the supervision of Inspector Sandeep Dabas.

FRRO Starts Deportation Proceedings

Following the verification, the seven nationals were produced before the Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO).

The FRRO issued restriction orders against them and initiated proceedings for their deportation from India.

The individuals were subsequently shifted to the Detention Centre at Sewa Dham, Shahzada Bagh, Sarai Rohilla, where they will remain pending completion of the deportation process.

Police said the action was taken under the applicable legal provisions governing visa violations and the stay of foreign nationals in India.

Seven Nationals Identified

The seven Bangladeshi nationals detained during the operation were identified as:

• MD Nazrul Islam Foisal, 26

• Mohammad Amjad Hossen, 26

• Moinul Hossain, 24

• Alamin, 25

• MD Kawasae Ali, 25

• Amran Hossain, 29

• Afranul Haque Bhuyan Sami, 23

Visa Verification Drive Continues

Operation Vista is part of Delhi Police's efforts to verify the immigration status of foreign nationals staying in the capital.

The latest action highlights the scrutiny being applied to visa validity and authorised periods of stay, particularly during checks at hotels, guest houses and other accommodation facilities.

The seven individuals will remain at the detention facility until the relevant authorities complete the required formalities for their deportation.