After WhatsApp, Centre sends notices to Telegram, Signal

The RSS expressed deep pain and anger over alleged donation embezzlement at the Ayodhya Ram Temple, demanding strict action against culprits. RSS general secretary Dattatreya Hosabale urged the Hindu community to remain vigilant against those exploiting the incident to defame them. He welcomed the SIT probe and stressed the need for transparent temple administration to uphold devotees' faith.

Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray has announced a "Ram Raksha" protest starting July 5, alleging embezzlement of donations at the Ayodhya Ram temple.He called for accountability from the BJP, citing sacrifices made during the temple movement and questioning if funds were used to poach opposition leaders. Thackeray vowed that "Hindus will not forgive" such alleged "loot in the name of Hindutva."

Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray has announced a "Ram Raksha" protest starting July 5, alleging embezzlement of donations at the Ayodhya Ram temple.He called for accountability from the BJP, citing sacrifices made during the temple movement and questioning if funds were used to poach opposition leaders. Thackeray vowed that "Hindus will not forgive" such alleged "loot in the name of Hindutva."

Aam Aadmi Party chief Arvind Kejriwal has accused the Centre of "forcibly imposing" 20% ethanol-blended petrol (E20), claiming it damages vehicles and reduces mileage. He plans to write to Prime Minister Modi about widespread public anger. This follows similar criticism from Karnataka minister Priyank Kharge, who alleged the government conducted an "experiment" without adequate consultation. The Petroleum Ministry, however, maintains the Ethanol Blending Programme is scientifically validated.

Japan has reaffirmed its strong backing for India's high-speed rail ambitions, supporting the 2027 target for the Mumbai-Ahmedabad corridor's initial operations. This commitment, alongside a new mobility partnership, signals deeper cooperation in advanced transport. Prime Minister Modi also invited Japanese firms to join India's expansive 7,000-km high-speed rail network vision, underscoring a growing bilateral strategic alliance.

Karnataka Chief Minister DK Shivakumar marked his first month in office by visiting former CM Siddaramaiah, seeking his blessings. Shivakumar expressed deep gratitude for Siddaramaiah's visionary leadership and extensive administrative experience, highlighting their invaluable contribution to the state's progress and public welfare. This meeting underscores a spirit of respect and continuity within the Congress party as they continue their work for a stronger Karnataka.

India and Japan have jointly condemned Pakistan-sponsored terrorism, specifically naming Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed, and urged global action against terror entities.The leaders also expressed concern over maritime security in the East and South China Seas, opposing unilateral actions.Both nations reaffirmed their commitment to UNSC reforms and permanent membership bids, advocating for text-based negotiations.Discussions also covered the Middle East and Ukraine.

The Indian Embassy in Venezuela is demanding a full investigation into allegations that Indian sailor Rakesh Chauhan's organs were removed before his body was sent home. His family claims he died suspiciously on a Venezuelan vessel, and a second post-mortem in India revealed his body was completely devoid of internal organs. The Forward Seamen's Union of India is also pushing for answers and has highlighted discrepancies in repatriation documents.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has extended his best wishes for the annual Shri Amarnath Yatra, urging pilgrims to embrace five key resolutions focusing on cleanliness, safety, environmental care, supporting local economies, and national service. The second batch of devotees has commenced their journey under robust security measures, with enhanced technology-driven surveillance in place. The pilgrimage, a significant symbol of India's spiritual heritage, continues until August 28.

Congress has urged Prime Minister Modi to order a Supreme Court-monitored probe into alleged irregularities surrounding Ram Temple donations, terming it a "chanda chori mega scandal." Citing the UP government's SIT probe as an "eyewash," the party claims top officials are complicit. AAP leader Arvind Kejriwal echoed these sentiments, alleging powerful individuals involved in land deals and temple construction are being shielded while minor figures are arrested.

Educators are questioning why classrooms are bearing the brunt of election duty, with entire teaching staffs at two Delhi government schools deployed for Booth Level Officer tasks. This leaves guest teachers to manage hundreds of students, raising concerns about inevitable academic loss, especially for board exam candidates. While acknowledging election importance, teachers advocate for equitable distribution of duties across schools to prevent educational disruption.

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's visit marked a significant advancement in India-Japan relations, with both nations forging new agreements in AI, energy, and defense. A roadmap for economic security was adopted to strengthen supply chains for critical minerals and semiconductors.Discussions also focused on enhancing bilateral trade through a review of the existing CEPA, underscoring a partnership built on deep mutual trust.

Petroleum Minister Hardeep Singh Puri addressed public concerns regarding ethanol-blended fuel, dismissing social media narratives as "make-believe." He clarified that any mileage reduction in E20-fuelled vehicles is minor, with potential benefits like improved acceleration.The ministry has released a detailed note to counter misinformation and reassure vehicle owners about the safety and established practice of ethanol blending, citing historical support from figures like Henry Ford.

Petroleum Minister Hardeep Singh Puri addressed public concerns regarding ethanol-blended fuel, dismissing social media narratives as "make-believe." He clarified that any mileage reduction in E20-fuelled vehicles is minor, with potential benefits like improved acceleration.The ministry has released a detailed note to counter misinformation and reassure vehicle owners about the safety and established practice of ethanol blending, citing historical support from figures like Henry Ford.

The Supreme Court has nullified orders from NCLT and NCLAT due to their reliance on fabricated AI-generated case laws. Justices cautioned against unchecked AI use, emphasizing human control in justice delivery. The court stressed a zero-tolerance approach for unverified AI precedents, declaring any decision based on such material invalid. A committee will now explore this issue, highlighting the risks of delegating critical thinking to AI.

Prime Minister Modi and his Japanese counterpart reaffirmed commitment to an early Quad summit, stressing freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz and opposing restrictive measures.The joint statement unequivocally condemned cross-border terrorism from Pakistan, specifically mentioning groups like Jaish and Lashkar, and supported India's IEA membership. Both nations also voiced opposition to unilateral actions in the East and South China Seas.

Prime Minister Modi and his Japanese counterpart reaffirmed commitment to an early Quad summit, stressing freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz and opposing restrictive measures.The joint statement unequivocally condemned cross-border terrorism from Pakistan, specifically mentioning groups like Jaish and Lashkar, and supported India's IEA membership. Both nations also voiced opposition to unilateral actions in the East and South China Seas.

A viral video showing a damaged section of the Delhi-Mumbai Expressway in Rajasthan has sparked renewed criticism. The National Highways Authority of India terminated the original contractor's agreement in April due to persistent poor performance.Repairs are underway by a new builder at the former contractor's expense, with micro-milling and permanent reconstruction planned after traffic diversion. Experts are investigating the cause of the pavement distress.

Indian authorities are ramping up their scrutiny of messaging apps, questioning both Telegram and Signal about their unique username features. This move mirrors previous discussions with WhatsApp concerning alarming trends in online fraud and impersonation. The government is keen on understanding how these platforms ensure user safety and traceability, prompting Telegram to clarify its current functionalities regarding username use.