New state, old script: Infighting returns to haunt Congress's Punjab poll plan

Punjab Congress faces a deep-rooted crisis fueled by persistent infighting and a delayed response from the high command. Despite Rahul Gandhi's call for unity, internal rifts are widening, with senior leaders expressing discontent over leadership decisions. This recurring pattern of internal conflict and inaction has historically led to electoral defeats, raising serious doubts about the party's prospects in the upcoming elections.

OPEC+ has approved an additional 188,000 barrels per day production increase for August, aiming to boost global crude availability and ease price pressures, particularly for importing nations like India. This move, part of a broader unwinding of production cuts, comes as global benchmark Brent crude nears pre-conflict levels. While oil firms anticipate breaking even on petrol and diesel soon, cooking gas sales continue to incur losses.

Remembering Dr. Syama Prasad Mookerjee on his 125th birth anniversary, this tribute highlights his unwavering commitment to India's unity and selfless service. From his early life of privilege to his impactful roles as an educationist, minister, and founder of the Jana Sangh, Mookerjee championed national integrity and democratic values. His sacrifice for Jammu & Kashmir's integration remains a pivotal moment in India's history.

Automobile majors are backing the government's mandatory 20% ethanol blending in petrol (E20), despite consumer concerns about mileage drops and potential material degradation in older vehicles. While official studies suggest minimal impact, vehicle owners report noticeable fuel efficiency losses. The controversy intensifies as India achieved its E20 target early, with speculation rising about even higher blending levels, prompting calls for consumer choice regarding fuel options.

A significant political battle is unfolding within the Trinamool Congress as rival factions, led by Mamata Banerjee and Ritabrata Banerjee, prepare to present their claims to the Election Commission. The dispute centers on control of the party's name, symbol, and assets, escalating after a legislative revolt and the rebel group's takeover of the party headquarters. The EC's decision will determine the 'real' Trinamool Congress.

The Congress party has voiced its vigorous objections to the upcoming Constitution (130th Amendment) Bill. This bill proposes the automatic expulsion of ministers—including the Prime Minister and Chief Ministers—upon being held in judicial custody for 30 days due to serious criminal charges. Congress believes this proposal is a tactic for political intimidation, anticipating that the BJP-led government will lack the necessary two-thirds majority to push it through.

Haryana CM Nayab Singh Saini is confident the BJP will win Punjab's 2027 assembly polls without alliances, asserting their partnership is with the people. He criticized the AAP and Congress for unfulfilled promises, highlighting issues like drug abuse, unemployment, and farmer distress in Punjab. Saini contrasted this with Haryana's procurement and women's financial assistance schemes, aiming to bring a 'double-engine' government to Punjab.

Uddhav Thackeray has strongly criticized the Centre regarding alleged donation embezzlement at the Ayodhya Ram Temple, asserting that "those looting Hindus are in power." He demanded an impartial investigation, warning that Hindus would not tolerate corruption in the name of religion.The controversy has led to arrests and prompted resignations, with wider scrutiny now on temple donation management.

The Badrinath-Kedarnath Temple Committee has formed a four-member panel to probe allegations of irregularities in handling pilgrim offerings and donations. This move follows social media claims and comes amid similar scrutiny at the Ayodhya Ram Temple. The committee will examine CCTV footage and employee statements, with strict action promised if guilt is established. Devotees are urged to avoid spreading unverified information until the inquiry concludes.

West Bengal BJP leader Rahul Sinha has accused Mamata Banerjee of treating Trinamool Congress MLAs and MPs as "mere servants." He cited a rebel leader's claim that elected representatives were forced to stand and applaud Abhishek Banerjee during a review meeting post-election defeat. This comes amid significant internal strife, with a rebel faction claiming substantial MLA support and several MPs merging with another party.

The weather forced the cancellation of four IndiGo flights and the diversion of 13 incoming aircraft operated by different airlines. All the diverted flights later returned to Mumbai and landed safely after conditions improved, according to sources. The airport operator said the suspension was necessary to ensure operational safety. According to sources, the cancelled IndiGo flights were 6E 395 from Delhi to Mumbai, 6E 5273 from Mumbai to Indore, 6E 552 from Indore to Mumbai and 6E 6613 from Mum

All 13 diverted flights were later able to return and land safely in Mumbai after weather conditions improved, the sources added. The disruption also triggered widespread delays across the airport. According to the latest data from flight tracking website Flightradar24, around 90% of departing flights were delayed by an average of 65 minutes, while 45% of arriving flights were running behind schedule, causing significant inconvenience to passengers.

Chirag Paswan's Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas) is gearing up to contest the upcoming Uttar Pradesh assembly elections, with the state unit to decide alliance details and seat allocation. The party aims to expand its national footprint, including strengthening its organization in Uttar Pradesh.Meanwhile, Lucknow will host the birth anniversary celebrations for the party's founder, Ram Vilas Paswan, this year.

Trinamool Congress MP Kirti Azad has voiced strong objections to the telecast of an adult advertisement, specifically for Durex, during the India-England T20I match. He highlighted that millions of children were watching and questioned the BCCI's decision to allow such content, especially when alcohol and cigarette ads are banned. Azad emphasized the discomfort it causes families and vowed to raise the issue in Parliament if necessary.

CPI(M) MP John Brittas has urged the Centre to bring the Shri Ram Janambhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust under the RTI Act. He argued that the Trust's establishment via government notification and the presence of government officials in its framework necessitate transparency and public accountability, especially amid allegations of donation embezzlement. Brittas drew a parallel with the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board, asserting that autonomy and accountability can coexist.

The Congress has accused the BJP-RSS of a "scam" involving alleged embezzlement of Ram Temple donations, demanding a Supreme Court-monitored probe. Party leader Jairam Ramesh criticized the Prime Minister and Home Minister's silence, linking the issue to past funding practices. An FIR has been registered, with eight arrests made and cash recovered as the investigation continues into the alleged siphoning of "thousands of crores."

Security forces are continuing a two-day anti-terror operation in Shopian's Meemandar area, intensifying their search for two suspected Lashkar-e-Taiba terrorists. The duo, identified as local residents Latif and Zakir, were spotted in a dense orchard and engaged security forces in a gunfight. Additional troops have been deployed to seal escape routes, with the operation ongoing despite challenging foliage.

West Bengal minister Dilip Ghosh claimed the Trinamool Congress is facing a "wave of resignations" and is effectively defunct, following Chandrima Bhattacharya's exit from all party posts. Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has reassumed leadership amidst internal turmoil and alleged BJP intimidation. Ghosh questioned Bhattacharya's tenure and Banerjee's budget preparation methods, while Bhattacharya cited hurt over Banerjee's accusations regarding Trinamool Bhavan's control.