Hyderabad: The Telangana High Court on Monday, July 20, came down heavily on the Hyderabad Disaster Response and Asset Protection Agency (HYDRAA), accusing it of repeatedly violating court orders by interfering with private properties despite clear judicial directions to the contrary.

Hearing a contempt petition filed by Shanta Sriram Constructions Pvt. Ltd., Justice Jukanti Anil Kumar expressed strong displeasure over HYDRAA’s conduct, observing that the agency’s repeated disregard for court orders reflected a lack of respect for the judiciary.

“The filing of not one or two but three contempt petitions on the same issue shows how little regard you have for court orders. Such arrogance is unacceptable. The victim here is not the petitioner but the court itself. Violating court orders has become a habit for you. We will not tolerate this. Whether it is the government or its officials, everyone must act within the framework of law,” the judge told HYDRAA Commissioner AV Ranganath.

The court acknowledged that efforts to protect lakes, drains and water bodies were commendable but said such actions could not be carried out in violation of judicial orders or by entering private property unlawfully.

Contempt petition challenges HYDRAA’s demolition drive

The contempt petition challenged HYDRAA’s demolition drive carried out on July 17 in a 40-acre property located in Survey Nos. 1 and 2 of Lothukunta village in Medchal-Malkajgiri district. The petitioner alleged that officials demolished a compound wall and damaged structures despite existing court orders restraining such action.

Appearing for the petitioner, senior counsel M. Harish Kumar argued that this was the third contempt petition arising from the same dispute. He further alleged that despite being informed about the court’s orders, HYDRAA officials assaulted the petitioner and later detained him at a police station after registering an FIR.

Expressing anger over the developments, Justice Anil Kumar warned that he could direct the police to produce the HYDRAA Commissioner before the court. The matter was later adjourned to the evening after Commissioner Ranganath agreed to appear at 6.30 pm. Representing HYDRAA, Advocate General A. Sudarshan Reddy submitted that 119 acres in Survey No. 243 were government land and that the authorities were only acting to protect public property.

He sought additional time to complete a survey and demarcation of the land. The court, however, questioned why the promised land demarcation had not been completed despite earlier assurances by the district collector. Addressing the commissioner directly, the judge remarked that if the government had objections to judicial orders, it had legal remedies available but was duty-bound to comply with them as long as they remained in force.

“How can you enter private land in the name of protecting government property? If you now claim it belongs to the Defence authorities, why were they not made a party to the case? Acting despite Division Bench orders amounts to interference with the judicial process. Such conduct cannot be permitted,” the court observed.

Court criticises police

The court also criticised the police for failing to provide the petitioner with a copy of the FIR and directed the Home Department’s counsel to ensure that the FIR copy was furnished immediately. Officials were instructed to file an affidavit explaining the circumstances, and the hearing was adjourned to Tuesday.

The court premises witnessed heightened activity during the proceedings as Commissioner Ranganath, senior police officers, the Advocate General, Additional Advocate General Mohammed Imran Khan and other government lawyers appeared before the bench.

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The Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) on Monday accused the Delhi Police of using excessive force against protesters during its “Sansad Chalo” march, alleging that several students were injured and Sonam Wangchuk’s wife, Gitanjali J Angmo, was pushed around, as the outfit continued its protest with a sit-in near Kerala House, after police dismantled the stage at Jantar Mantar.

Police, however, denied the allegation that Angmo was assaulted as “completely false and misleading”. They claimed that “no individuals were subjected to targeted assault”.

The allegations came after police dispersed protesters attempting to march towards Parliament and cleared the protest site. By evening, CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke, spokesperson Ashutosh Ranka, Saurav Das and Angmo continued the sit-in near Kerala House, saying the agitation would continue despite the crackdown.

“Police have been absolutely brutal. They have fractured the skulls of many students who were protesting here. Even a 15-year-old girl was brutally beaten up by a male police officer. A male police officer even tried to grab the hair of Sonam Wangchuk’s wife, Gitanjali Angmo. They even tried to lathicharge her and drag her out of the tempo,” Dipke alleged.

Addressing supporters, Angmo said the movement has drawn the support of an estimated 25 lakh young people, which, she said reflects widespread concern over the condition of the country’s education system.

“This shows that our education system, education policies and overall governance in the sector are deeply flawed and affecting every young person. The government must listen to their concerns at the earliest. Good governance means listening to the voices of youngsters and resolving this matter without delay,” she said.

Angmo said Wangchuk, who continues his hunger strike at the Safdarjung Hospital, has laid down three conditions for ending his fast — the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, an assurance from cabinet ministers and members of Parliament that issues relating to education would be taken up during the ongoing Monsoon session and action by the government on a memorandum submitted by the protesters, covering issues ranging from the alleged NEET paper leak to the condition of government schools.

“Only if these assurances are given will Sonam end his fast,” Angmo said. The Delhi Police, however, denied allegations that Angmo was assaulted. In a post on X, the force said reports claiming that Angmo was assaulted or had her hair pulled by police personnel are “completely false and misleading”.

Delhi police deny

“No individuals were subjected to targeted assault, and claims suggesting malicious force or personal targeting are entirely baseless,” it said.In a statement issued in the evening, police said more than 118 personnel, including several senior officers, were injured in clashes with the protesters.

They said the protesters displayed “unruly, aggressive and violent behaviour”, and refused to disperse despite repeated warnings and lawful directions.

“During today’s protest by CJP in the New Delhi area, the protesters displayed unruly, aggressive and violent behaviour. Despite repeated warnings and lawful directions issued by the police, they refused to disperse and deliberately violated the prohibitory orders in force,” the statement said.

It alleged that the protesters attacked police personnel with stones and other objects, attempted to breach barricades, vandalised police and other government vehicles, damaged public property and resorted to large-scale violence, posing a serious threat to public order.

“The violent mob also caused extensive damage to public property. Around 15 to 20 government vehicles, along with other government property, were vandalised during the incident,” the statement said.

Police said around 70 protesters have been detained and legal proceedings have been initiated.

“Around 70 protesters have been detained. Appropriate legal action is being initiated, and an FIR is being registered under the relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and other applicable laws for rioting, assault on public servants, damage to public property and other offences committed during the protest,” the statement said.

Reiterating its commitment to maintaining law and order, the Delhi Police said strict action would be taken against all those found involved in unlawful and violent activities.

The CJP said its protest would continue despite the police action, with Dipke, Ranka, Das and Angmo continuing their sit-in near Kerala House after being removed from Jantar Mantar. “This peaceful protest is not ending,” the outfit said.

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Hyderabad: The Telangana High Court on Monday, July 20, restrained the Hyderabad Disaster Response and Asset Protection Agency (HYDRAA) from taking any coercive action on 26.03 acres of land in Bahadurguda village near Shamshabad, part of nearly 650 acres proposed to be acquired by the state government for the bullet train project.

Justice B. Vijaysen Reddy issued the interim order while hearing a lunch motion petition filed by Jakkidi Yadi Reddy and three others. The direction will remain in force until the next hearing. The court also directed the authorities to file their counters.

Senior counsel V. Raghunath, appearing for the petitioners, submitted that the farmers had been in possession of the land since the late 1980s after purchasing it through registered sale deeds. He alleged that on July 18,

HYDRAA personnel entered the land with bulldozers and JCBs, demolished gates and fenced the entire extent, preventing the owners from accessing and cultivating their fields.

The petitioners told the court that they had been raising crops on the land for years and that the sudden fencing had disrupted agricultural activities.

Arguing for the state, Advocate General A. Sudershan Reddy contended that the petitioners had failed to produce valid ownership documents. He maintained that the land belonged to the government and had remained under its protection since 1950. He also argued that HYDRAA’s action related to a different survey number and remarked that “this is how innocuous orders are obtained and put the state in trouble.”

The disputed land forms part of around 650 acres identified for acquisition for the proposed bullet train corridor.

More farmers approach HC

A fresh batch of petitions has also been filed by 85 farmers from Bahadurguda, who accused HYDRAA, police and revenue officials of carrying out similar action on their properties. The petitioners claimed they hold valid ownership documents and alleged that authorities fenced their lands and demolished structures despite decades of cultivation and existing irrigation facilities.

The High Court is expected to take up their pleas shortly.

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Washington: President Donald Trump imposed an additional 50 per cent tariff on hundreds of Canadian products, accusing Ottawa of discriminating against American exports of automobiles, alcoholic beverages and dairy products, in a major escalation of trade tensions between the two North American neighbours.

Invoking Section 338 of the Tariff Act of 1930, Trump signed three separate proclamations imposing the new duties on selected Canadian imports. The White House said the action was aimed at offsetting “the burden and disadvantage on US commerce from Canada’s discriminatory treatment of US commerce” and “levelling the playing field” for American exports, particularly cars, alcohol and dairy products.

According to the White House, the tariffs will take effect 30 days after signing and will apply regardless of whether goods qualify for preferential treatment under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). The measures will not cover energy, potash, products already subject to Section 232 tariffs, fish, critical minerals and certain other specified goods.

The administration said the new tariffs cover a broad range of Canadian imports, including products ranging from wine and hockey sticks to cement and consumer goods. The accompanying annexes list hundreds of tariff classifications that will be subject to the additional 50 per cent duty.

The White House said Canada had maintained policies that discriminated against American exporters while giving more favourable treatment to other trading partners.

It said Canada imposed tariffs and quota restrictions on US motor vehicles that were not applied to imports from other countries and administered quotas in a manner that encouraged American manufacturers to invest in Canadian production instead of expanding facilities in the United States.

Canadian imports of US motor vehicles fell by approximately 22 per cent, or $5.6 billion, between April 2025 and March 2026 compared with the same period a year earlier, while imports from other countries increased to replace American exports, the White House said in a fact sheet.

The White House also cited restrictions on American alcoholic beverages, saying all but two Canadian provinces and territories halted the purchase, distribution or retail sale of US alcohol while maintaining access for products from other countries. It said Canadian imports of US alcoholic beverages declined by about 81 per cent, or $582 million, during the March 2025-February 2026 period compared with the previous year.

On dairy, the administration argued that Canada’s tariff-rate quota system for cheese under the USMCA was more restrictive than the quota system applied to similar European Union imports under the Canada-European Union Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement, placing American exporters at a competitive disadvantage.

The White House said that over the past year and a half, only two countries, China and Canada, had chosen to retaliate against Trump’s tariffs instead of negotiating trade agreements with Washington.

It said the administration had secured 18 trade deals that opened new markets for US exports but argued that Canada had “elected to discriminate against the United States rather than address Canadian trade barriers.”

The latest tariffs mark another significant step in the Trump administration’s use of trade measures to pursue its America First economic agenda.

–IANS

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Amaravati: The Andhra Pradesh government on Monday, July 20, approved key works under the Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme (RDSS) to ensure uninterrupted power supply during the Akhanda Godavari Maha Pushkaralu-2027, including Rs 521 crore works proposed in preparation for the mega pilgrimage.

Akhanda Godavari Maha Pushkaralu, a 12-day Kumbh Mela-like pilgrimage, is expected to attract nearly one crore devotees every day to the Godavari region.

“Approved power infrastructure development works worth Rs 521.58 crore proposed by APEPDCL in preparation for the Akhanda Godavari Maha Pushkaralu-2027,” said an official press release.

The approvals were accorded during a meeting of the State Distribution Reforms Committee (SDRC), chaired by chief secretary G Sai Prasad and also attended by special chief secretary (energy) K Vijayanand.

According to the chief secretary, the government is making comprehensive advance arrangements to ensure uninterrupted and quality power supply during the 12-day religious event.

Additional power demand in Rajahmundry

Keeping in view the projected additional power demand of around 100 MW in Rajahmundry alone, the Committee approved infrastructure development works worth Rs 345 crore covering Rajahmundry and Konaseema, Kakinada and West Godavari districts, said the press release.

The approved works include the construction of new 33/11 kV substations, additional 33 kV and 11 kV power lines, augmentation of transformer capacity, and the development of other essential power infrastructure.

Prasad directed officials to complete all works before the commencement of the pilgrimage and ensure that the entire power system is fully tested and kept in complete readiness.

Further, the committee deliberated on the progress of agricultural feeder segregation and bifurcation of overloaded feeders, underground power cabling works in Visakhapatnam, smart meters, and proposals for the modernisation of Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) system in Visakhapatnam and establishment of a new SCADA system in Rajahmundry.

Prasad reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to developing a modern, technology-driven and future-ready power distribution system that delivers reliable, high-quality and affordable electricity to every consumer.

It reviewed the progress of loss reduction works being implemented by Andhra Pradesh Southern Power Distribution Company Ltd (APSPDCL), Andhra Pradesh Central Power Distribution Company Ltd (APCPDCL) and APEPDCL under RDSS, particularly agricultural feeder segregation and bifurcation of overloaded feeders.

While the three Distribution Companies (DISCOMs) have made significant progress, certain works have been delayed due to GIS-based surveys, changes in project scope, right of way issues, statutory approvals, power shutdown constraints, adverse weather conditions, supply chain disruptions and other field-level challenges, said the press release.

Considering these factors, the committee approved the extension of the relevant contracts up to March 31, 2027, to facilitate completion of the remaining works.

The chief secretary stated that upon completion of these projects, technical losses would be substantially reduced, power distribution network would be further strengthened, quality power supply to the agriculture sector would improve, and consumers across the state would benefit from enhanced services.

Underground power cabling works reviewed

Reviewing the progress of underground power cabling works being executed under RDSS in Visakhapatnam, he directed officials to ensure timely completion of the works while strictly adhering to prescribed quality and safety standards.

He observed that underground cabling would significantly strengthen the city’s power distribution network, minimise disruptions caused by natural calamities, enhance public safety, and provide robust power infrastructure to support the rapid growth of Visakhapatnam.

Further, the Advanced Metering Infrastructure Service Provider (AMISP) project being implemented by the DISCOMs has already achieved around 81 percent progress.

The committee approved the extension of the AMISP contract up to March 31, 2027 to facilitate completion of the remaining works.

As part of efforts to further modernise the state’s power distribution system, the committee approved a proposal worth Rs 176 crore for upgrading the existing SCADA system in Visakhapatnam and establishing a new SCADA system in Rajahmundry.

Prasad noted that advanced systems would enable real-time monitoring of the power distribution network, remote operation of substations, faster fault detection, quicker restoration of power supply and improved operational efficiency of the distribution network.

He observed that the adoption of advanced technologies such as SCADA would help build a smart and future-ready power distribution system while enabling more efficient power management during large-scale events such as the Akhanda Godavari Maha Pushkaralu.

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Gaza Strip: Khalil al-Hayya was elected head of Hamas’ political bureau on Monday, July 20, after winning a run-off vote against former political bureau chief Khaled Meshaal, becoming the Palestinian group’s top political leader. According to reports, al-Hayya secured 35 votes to Meshaal’s 34 in the movement’s General Shura Council.

The veteran Hamas official succeeds Yahya Sinwar, who was killed by Israeli forces in Gaza in October 2024. His election comes after nearly two years in which he emerged as one of the group’s leading political figures and chief negotiators during indirect ceasefire talks.

Born in Gaza City on November 5, 1960, al-Hayya became active in the Muslim Brotherhood during the early 1980s before joining Hamas when the movement was founded in 1987. Over the following decades, he rose through the organisation’s ranks, serving in several senior political positions.

Al-Hayya studied Islamic sciences, earning a bachelor’s degree from the Islamic University of Gaza in 1983, a master’s degree from the University of Jordan in 1986 and a doctorate in Hadith sciences from Sudan in 1997. He later served as dean of student affairs at the Islamic University of Gaza and became a member of the Palestinian Scholars Association.

Senior leadership role

Al-Hayya has held a number of key positions within Hamas, including membership of its political bureau and responsibility for the group’s relations with Arab and Islamic countries. In 2006, he was elected to the Palestinian Legislative Council and later headed Hamas’ parliamentary bloc.

He has represented Hamas in regional diplomacy for years and played a prominent role in indirect negotiations with Israel during successive rounds of conflict in Gaza. Following the killing of Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran in July 2024, al-Hayya joined a five-member leadership council that managed the movement’s affairs until a permanent political bureau chief was elected.

In 2022, he led a Hamas delegation to Damascus to restore relations with the Syrian government after ties had been suspended for more than a decade.

Personal losses

Al-Hayya has also suffered repeated personal losses during the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

He has been detained by Israeli authorities on several occasions and survived an Israeli airstrike on his family home in Gaza City in 2007. According to Hamas, the attack killed several members of his extended family.

His son Hamza was killed in an Israeli airstrike in 2008. During the 2014 Gaza war, another son, Osama, along with Osama’s wife and three children, was killed in an Israeli strike on their home.

According to Hamas, al-Hayya also lost another son during the ongoing Gaza conflict.

Based in Qatar in recent years, al-Hayya has remained a key member of Hamas’ political leadership and has represented the movement in negotiations and diplomatic engagements across the region.

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Hyderabad: The case of sexual harassment and assault by a trainee Indian Police Service (IPS) officer perpetrated on a female trainee IPS officer has only become murkier, with both the sides levelling allegation against each other.

In a latest development in the case, a letter purportedly written by trainee IPS officer M Uday Krishna Reddy surfaced, in which he wrote that he was taking the extreme step because of four persons including the woman who levelled sexual harassment and assault allegations against him.

In the undated letter titled “suicide note,” Reddy accused the victim (complainant) of manipulating him after being in a relationship with him during the training period. He claimed that even after her marriage to another person, their relationship continued.

He also claimed that the woman knocked his door after sending him WhatsApp messages, after which he opened the door of his room to let the woman enter.

Reddy claimed that the woman (complainant) entered the room and kept fighting with him, and that in his defense he reacted in a certain way, the video proof of which he claimed he has.

He also alleged that the woman entered his room with “an intense sexual urge,” and that she was the one who kissed and hugged him without his consent.

He claimed that he recorded that incident and sent to her husband, in addition to all the evidences of her entering his room many times during the training, for which his WhatsApp chats were an evidence.

“But she manipulated everything and told i assaulted her…which is not true. She only came to my room,” Reddy alleged.

He further alleged that the Suma, Venkateshwaranand, her friends Baswaja Naik, and Kailash Kalra had instigated her against him, and held them solely responsible for his suicide- which didn’t happen.

He ended his so-called suicide note with ‘Satyameva Jayate’ bottom-line, without a date-line. It wasn’t sure if he wrote the letter before or after getting drunk/attempting suicide.

The Hyderabad police has been tight-lipped about the incident.

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Major UAE carriers Emirates, Etihad Airways and Air Arabia have suspended multiple flights between the UAE and Kuwait on Monday, July 20, and Tuesday, July 21, as heightened regional tensions continue to disrupt air travel across the Gulf, according to media reports.

The carriers have advised travellers to verify their flight status before heading to the airport and contact their airline for rebooking, refunds or travel assistance if their journey has been affected.

Emirates has cancelled flights EK853, EK855, EK857 and EK859 from Dubai to Kuwait, together with return services EK854, EK856, EK858 and EK860, on July 20 and 21. The airline said passengers travelling on codeshare services should check with the operating carrier, as its online flight status page only displays Emirates-operated flights.

Etihad Airways has also suspended flights EY653 and EY654 between Zayed International Airport in Abu Dhabi and Kuwait International Airport. The carrier said the services were cancelled for operational reasons and that affected passengers are being assisted with alternative travel arrangements. Customers have also been advised to update their mobile number and email address to receive the latest travel notifications via SMS and email.

Air Arabia has likewise cancelled several flights between the UAE and Kuwait. The affected services include G9068, G9124 and G9121 from Sharjah to Kuwait, G9069, G9125 and G9122 from Kuwait to Sharjah, 3L020 and 3L022 from Abu Dhabi to Kuwait, and 3L021 and 3L023 on the return journey.

Bahrain and Qatar routes impacted

Elsewhere in the Gulf, Emirates has cancelled selected Bahrain services, including flights EK835, EK837 and EK839 between Dubai and Bahrain. Air Arabia has also suspended Doha-bound flights G9040, G9130 and G9027 as airlines continue to adjust schedules in response to regional security developments. Carriers are also closely monitoring operations across the wider region, including Jordan, where flight schedules may be affected by changing operational requirements.While airports across the UAE remain operational, airlines have warned that schedules could change at short notice as the regional situation develops.

Travel tips

Passengers travelling between the UAE and Kuwait should verify their flight status through their airline’s official website or mobile app before heading to the airport. Those whose flights have been cancelled should contact their airline to arrange rebooking or refund options, where applicable, and ensure their booking details are up to date to receive travel alerts. Travellers with connecting flights should also check the status of their onward journeys before departure.

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Hyderabad: Telangana Irrigation Minister N Uttam Kumar Reddy on Monday, July 20, said the scientific tests for the repair of the three barrages of the Kaleshwaram project are in the final stages and that designs are being prepared for their revival.

Reddy, who held a meeting with MLAs and other leaders of Nalgonda and other districts, said the government has adopted a scientific approach to resume the Medigadda, Annaram and Sundilla barrages of the Kaleshwaram lift irrigation project.

Kaleshwaram is a multi-purpose project on the Godavari river in the Bhupalpally district. Damage to the barrages of the project, built during the previous BRS regime, was a major issue during the 2023 Assembly election.

Reddy made it clear that the government would not use the three barrages until the experts certify their safety.

Leading technical institutions, including Central Water and Power Research Station (CWPRS) and National Geophysical Research Institute (NGRI), have conducted tests with regard to the nature of the soil, foundations and concrete structures as part of repairs of the three barrages, he said.

Reddy said the test results have been sent to IIT, Mumbai, where experts are preparing comprehensive designs for their revival.

He made it clear that the state government would take up the revival of the barrages as per the instructions of the National Dam Safety Authority (NDSA), the Central Water Commission (CWC) and also a technical supervisory committee appointed by the Centre.

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Hyderabad: The Telangana government on Monday, July 20, launched the Indiramma housing scheme for the poor in the Hyderabad Core Urban Region.

State Housing Minister Ponguleti Srinivasa Reddy launched the scheme along with his cabinet colleagues D Sridhar Babu, Ponnam Prabhakar and Mohammad Azharuddin.

Reddy said the government was sanctioning 500 houses each in 16 of the 24 Assembly constituencies in CURE in the first phase.

The scheme would be implemented in the remaining eight segments soon, he said.

Reddy said one lakh houses would be built in Hyderabad CURE.

He said 4.50 lakh houses and 2.50 lakh houses had been sanctioned in the first and second phases of the Indiramma housing scheme, respectively, and these two phases would be followed by the sanction of one lakh houses in Hyderabad CURE.

Under the scheme, the government plans to construct multi-storey buildings, with each flat having a built-up area of 525 sq ft.

The construction of each house is estimated to cost Rs 11 lakh, and the government would provide a subsidy of Rs 5 lakh. Beneficiaries will have to pay Rs 6 lakh to the government in four instalments.

He said the annual income of a beneficiary should not exceed Rs 6 lakh.

The beneficiary should not own either a house or a plot in CURE.

The Indiramma house cannot be sold for 10 years, but it can be mortgaged with a bank to obtain a loan. SC, ST and BC categories would have reservation in the sanctioning of houses, he said.

Sridhar Babu said the construction of Indiramma houses in CURE was “revolutionary”.

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Hyderabad: The Hyderabad City Police busted a ganja distribution racket and arrested six people with 8.41 kg of the drug near Hanuman Temple on Bhopal Nagar Road, said a press release on Monday, July 20.

The raid was conducted by Attapur police in coordination with Rajendranagar Special Operation Team (SOT). A sealing machine, mobile phones and a motorcycle were also seized.

The arrested have been identified as – Mohammed Faizan Bakshi (19), Syed Sadiq (40), Ali Ahmed (55), Riyaz Ahmed Khan (22), Mohammed Jaffar (21) and Tausif Baig (22).

Another accused, believed to be the supplier from Maharashtra, is absconding.

The accused were produced before a court and remanded to judicial custody. A case under NDPS Act has been registered.

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Hyderabad: Financial assistance of Rs 90.85 lakh was handed over to the family of Shankar Goud, the Telangana State Road Transport Corporation (TGSRTC) driver who self-immolated in April this year.

Fifty-year-old Goud took his life on April 23, after talks between RTC workers and the Congress government failed over a range of demands, including wage revision, improved welfare measures, issues related to electric bus procurement and operations, the merger of RTC employees with the state government, and the conduct of union elections.

Transport Minister Ponnam Prabhakar presented a cheque of Rs 90,85,500 to Shankar’s wife Hemalatha, son Hemanth and daughter Shalini at a programme held at RTC Kala Bhavan in Hyderabad. TGSRTC Managing Director Y Nagi Reddy was also present.

The assistance was voluntarily contributed by TGSRTC employees under the ‘Cheyutha’ welfare initiative.

“The TGSRTC will provide employment for Shankar Goud’s son, Hemanth, and the family had been sanctioned a house,” Ponnam said.

He also announced that the process of merging RTC with the government would begin after the trade union elections are completed, in line with a decision by a committee comprising four ministers and senior officials.

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Riyadh: Saudi Arabia has introduced flexible residency permit (iqama) renewal options for domestic workers, allowing employers to issue or renew permits for periods starting from three months through the Absher platform.

The initiative was launched by the Ministry of Interior, represented by the General Directorate of Passports (Jawazat), in cooperation with the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development and the national recruitment platform Musaned.

Under the new system, employers can choose residency permit durations of three, six, nine, 12, 15, 18, 21 or 24 months for domestic workers and those in similar categories. Previously, residency permits were generally issued or renewed for one or two years.

The revised system enables employers to pay residency fees only for the selected permit period. For permits issued or renewed for three months, or multiples of three months, fees can be paid on a quarterly basis instead of paying for a longer renewal period upfront.

Saudi authorities said the move is aimed at giving employers greater flexibility in managing employment-related costs while catering to the varying needs of households and domestic workers.

The initiative also forms part of the Kingdom’s broader efforts to modernise residency services, streamline government procedures and expand digital services. Officials said the measure is intended to improve the efficiency of residency-related processes and enhance the overall user experience as Saudi Arabia continues its digital transformation.

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Hyderabad: A three-member dacoity gang allegedly involved in a series of temple dacoities across Telangana and Andhra Pradesh was taken into custody in Khammam on Monday, July 20.

The Khammam police recovered 24 grams of gold, 1,536 grams of silver articles, a car, a motorcycle, and other stolen goods from the arrested accused, according to Kallur Assistant Commissioner of Police Vasundhara Yadav.

Sheikh Jani alias Jani Sharif, Perala Narasimha Rao alias Bobby, and Arva Uday Kumar were identified as the arrested.

Yadav told reporters that Sheikh Jani and his gang carried out multiple temple thefts across Andhra Pradesh and erstwhile Khammam, targeting valuable gold and silver artefacts.

The Assistant Commissioner added that authorities intercepted Sheikh Jani, Narasimha Rao, and Kumar near the Seetharamapuram Greenfield Highway while the trio was on their way to Tiruvuru to dispose of stolen temple ornaments.

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Hyderabad: At a district-level review meeting on the impacts of El Niño and measures to minimise maximum damage, Hyderabad officials were strictly directed to ensure smooth drinking water supply and uninterrupted electricity.

Chaired by Transport Minister Ponnam Prabhakar at the Praja Bhavan on Monday, July 20, the meeting focused on preventing water wastage, ways to quickly restore electricity in the event of outages, and intensifying awareness campaigns.

He directed departments to identify vulnerable areas across the city and educate people on the benefits of rainwater harvesting pits and groundwater conservation.

Telangana is currently reeling under a 42 per cent rainfall deficit.

The meeting was attended by senior administrative officers. Hyderabad Metropolitan Water Supply and Sewerage Board (HMWSSB) Managing Director Ashok Reddy reviewed water availability in Singur, Manjira, Osman Sagar, Himayat Sagar, Nagarjuna Sagar and the Sripada Yellampalli Project. He said contingency plans had been prepared to divert water from surplus areas to deficit regions, undertake borewell and pipeline repairs and ensure uninterrupted drinking water supply.

Telangana State Southern Power Distribution Company Limited (TSSPDCL) Chairman and Managing Director Jitesh Patil said if consumers reduce power usage between 4.30 am and 6.30 am and 4.30 pm and 6.30 pm, it will help maintain grid stability.

Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) Commissioner RV Karnan said comprehensive arrangements for drinking water management, sanitation, urban flooding, traffic regulation and public health are in place. He said special drives were underway to prevent dengue, malaria and other mosquito-borne diseases, while disaster response teams remained on alert.

Officials from the Groundwater Department said groundwater levels were being monitored mandal-wise and announced the formation of a District Groundwater Task Force to strengthen conservation efforts. They also said implementation of the WALTA Act, regulation of groundwater extraction and rainwater harvesting measures were being intensified.

District Medical and Health Officer Dr P Srinivas said surveillance for dengue, malaria and seasonal diseases had been intensified in coordination with GHMC. Civil Supplies officials said adequate buffer stocks of essential commodities had been maintained to ensure uninterrupted public distribution.

Hyderabad Collector Dr Priyanka Ala said the suggestions made by ministers, legislators and officials would be incorporated into a comprehensive District Contingency Action Plan.

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Hyderabad: The Khammam Excise authorities intercepted a major illegal operation, seizing a total of 40 kilograms of ganja, worth Rs 20 lakhs, across three separate incidents.

According to the authorities, a car arriving from Odisha was caught transporting 27 kilogram of the contraband, while an additional 13 kilogram were recovered from the accused on two motorcycles.

According to Khammam Deputy Commissioner Somireddy, the overall value of the confiscated ganja stands at Rs 20 lakh.

Authorities have arrested Vinay Sarkar for his involvement in smuggling the 27 kilograms of ganja via car, and his vehicle has been seized by the police. Officials also apprehended Moosa Ravikumar with 6.8 kilograms in a separate bust.

Two additional accused individuals, identified as Talla Dhanaraj and Gaddam Shankar, remain absconding as police continue their efforts to track them down.

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Hyderabad: Trade unions reaffirmed that gig and platform workers across Telangana will participate in the July 22 statewide strike – Breakdown Flash Strike- and launch an indefinite strike after August 8 if the government continues to ignore their demands.

The protest is called by the Telangana App-Based Drivers Forum (TADF). The announcement was made at the CITU City Office in Musheerabad on Monday, July 20.

The union leaders have demanded a fair minimum base fare, the immediate notification of the gig and platform workers rules, the constitution of a welfare board and the implementation of minimum fares under the Motor Vehicle Aggregator Guidelines, 2025.

Telangana Gig and Platform Workers Union (TGPWU) founding president Shaik Salauddin that they are left with no option but to protest. “We sincerely apologise to customers for the inconvenience. However, app-based cab drivers, auto drivers, goods transport drivers and delivery workers have been left with no other option. Since platform companies and the government have failed to resolve our long-pending demands, we are compelled to observe the statewide Breakdown Flash Strike on July 22. Our fight is for fair fares, decent livelihoods and justice for all gig and platform workers,” he said.

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Abu Dhabi: Network International on Monday, July 20, announced that UAE’s domestic payment card scheme, Jaywan, now supports online payments after the fintech company expanded its acceptance across its e-commerce merchant network.

The move allows Jaywan cardholders to make secure online transactions at thousands of merchants in the UAE through Network International’s payment gateway. The company said merchants will not incur additional fees for Jaywan transactions processed via the platform.

The expansion comes after the official launch of Jaywan, the UAE’s first national card scheme, inaugurated by Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister, Chief of the Presidential Court, and Chairman of the Central Bank of the UAE. Developed by Al Etihad Payments, a subsidiary of the Central Bank, the scheme forms part of the UAE’s digital transformation strategy to strengthen the country’s payments ecosystem, promote innovation and enhance interoperability.

Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan launches the UAE’s first national card scheme, Jaywan. Photo: WAM

Pinar Alpay, Group Chief Product and Marketing Officer at Network International, said extending Jaywan acceptance to online payments builds on the company’s earlier rollout of the scheme for in-store transactions. She said the expansion gives cardholders a consistent payment experience across physical and digital channels while helping businesses grow and supporting the UAE’s transition towards a cashless economy.

Andrea Cianchetti, Chief Products Officer at Al Etihad Payments, said wider participation by issuers, acquirers and payment service providers is essential to expanding Jaywan’s acceptance across in-store, online and mobile wallet transactions. He said Network International’s support for online payments marks another step in making the domestic card scheme more widely available for everyday use across the UAE.

Network International was among the first acquirers to enable Jaywan card acceptance for in-person payments in the UAE. With the addition of online payments, the company said it continues to support the country’s financial inclusion and digital transformation agenda.

Jaywan is designed to provide businesses and consumers with a secure and efficient domestic payment solution while helping reduce transaction costs, improve payment processing and contribute to economic growth.

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A second commercial vessel was attacked in the Strait of Hormuz off the coast of the United Arab Emirates on Monday evening, July 20, Britain’s UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) said, hours after another ship caught fire following a projectile strike near Oman’s coastline.

According to the UKMTO, the first vessel caught fire after being struck by a projectile. The crew abandoned the ship, which remained adrift and ablaze for hours. The second attack heightened concerns over security in one of the world’s busiest shipping lanes as the conflict between Iran and the United States intensified.

The route off Oman’s coast has been recommended by the US military for commercial shipping seeking to avoid waters under Iran’s control. Iran’s Revolutionary Guard later said it was targeting tankers transiting the Strait of Hormuz.

Mediators propose 10-day pause to revive interim deal

Amid the escalating conflict, mediators have presented Iran with a proposal for a 10-day pause in fighting with the United States to create space for reviving an interim agreement reached last month, Reuters reported, citing a senior Iranian official.

The proposal comes after the interim deal collapsed, with both countries resuming military operations despite ongoing diplomatic contacts.

US military highlights readiness in Middle East

Amid the escalating conflict with Iran, the US Central Command (CENTCOM) highlighted the operational readiness of American forces deployed across the Middle East.

In a post on X on Monday, CENTCOM said US Marines had replaced the transmission on a High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) vehicle while deployed in the region.

“American military logisticians and sustainers across CENTCOM remain at the top of their game, helping keep the world’s most professional and lethal fighting force ready,” the command said.

U.S. Marines change the transmission on a High Mobility Artillery Rocket System vehicle while deployed to the Middle East. American military logisticians and sustainers across CENTCOM remain at the top of their game, helping keep the world's most professional and lethal fighting… pic.twitter.com/2vsqQvh94r

— U.S. Central Command (@CENTCOM) July 20, 2026 Iran says diplomacy remains active

Iran said diplomatic exchanges with the United States are continuing through international mediators even as the conflict escalates.

Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei said mediators had conveyed proposals to Tehran in recent days aimed at preventing further escalation, although he declined to reveal their details.

“The fact that mediators are active and trying to prevent an escalation of tensions is clear,” Baghaei said, adding that Iran had received the proposals.

He stressed that diplomacy and military action were not mutually exclusive, rejecting suggestions that Tehran had to choose between negotiations and defence.

“Negotiation and defence both have their own path,” he said, adding that Iran’s diplomats and armed forces were working towards the same objective of safeguarding the country’s national interests.

Baghaei also said Iran had suspended implementation of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) after accusing Washington of failing to honour its commitments. He maintained that the 14-clause agreement contained “no ambiguity” and insisted the United States had “no excuse” to violate its provisions.

On the Strait of Hormuz, Baghaei reiterated that Iran remained responsible for managing the strategic waterway in consultation with Oman and neighbouring countries. He warned that Tehran would not allow the route to be exploited against its security or national interests.

JUST IN: Iran's FM Spox. Esmail Baghaei:

“Even without relying on Article 5 of the memorandum of understanding, Iran, as the coastal state bordering the Strait of Hormuz, possesses legal and sovereign rights over the strait.

The experience of military attacks by the United… pic.twitter.com/4uspOG6jNt

— Sulaiman Ahmed (@ShaykhSulaiman) July 20, 2026 Pezeshkian defends Iran’s position

President Masoud Pezeshkian said Iran had not relinquished any of its rights, interests or principles under the MoU, insisting that the agreement largely favoured Tehran rather than Washington.

Rejecting suggestions that military pressure had forced Iran to compromise, he said the conflict was “not just about missiles” and argued that Iran’s adversaries had realised they could not force the country into surrender through military action.

Describing the confrontation as a “full-scale war”, Pezeshkian called for national unity and decisions based on collective wisdom, warning that economic pressure could undermine the country’s military achievements and social resilience.

Masoud Pezeshkian US strikes Bushehr as Iran retaliates

The latest escalation saw the United States strike several locations in Bushehr, southern Iran, including areas in the city that hosts the country’s only civilian nuclear power plant, according to Iranian state media.

Iran responded with attacks across the Gulf region. Explosions were reported in Bahrain’s capital, Manama, after air raid sirens sounded. Bahrain later said Iranian drones had targeted the kingdom’s civil air navigation systems but confirmed that flight operations remained unaffected.

Iran also launched attacks targeting other Gulf states, including Kuwait, as the regional conflict widened.

The US military identified two soldiers killed in an Iranian attack on Jordan as 1st Lt Tyler James Feehan, 25, from Hawaii, and Pvt Isabella Gonzales, 19, from Texas.

Bahrain activates emergency sirens

Bahrain’s Ministry of Interior activated emergency alarm sirens on Monday and urged citizens and residents to remain calm and move to the nearest safe location as regional tensions escalated.

In a post on X, the ministry advised the public to follow updates through official channels and comply with safety instructions issued by the relevant authorities.

تم إطلاق صافرة الإنذار، نرجو من المواطنين والمقيمين الهدوء والتوجه لأقرب مكان آمن ومتابعة الأخبار عبر القنوات الرسمية

— Ministry of Interior (@moi_bahrain) July 20, 2026 Strait of Hormuz tensions deepen

Iran renewed warnings over the Strait of Hormuz, saying it would not allow the strategic shipping lane to be used to threaten the country’s security.

An Iranian military spokesperson said no country would be allowed to transport military equipment through the waterway for use against Iran. He warned that states cooperating with the United States against Tehran could face difficulties using the strait if tensions continued.

Cargo vessels sail through the Strait of Hormuz, seen from Musandam, Oman, on June 18, 2026. (Photo: Reuters) Ghalibaf accuses US of double standards

Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf accused Washington of reinforcing its military presence in the Middle East while claiming it sought to end the conflict.

Writing on X, Ghalibaf said Iran had become fully aware of what he described as American “games” and had prepared accordingly. He added that actions, rather than public statements, would determine whether the United States genuinely intended to reduce tensions.

آمریکایی‌ها مدام تجهیزات نظامی جدید به منطقه می‌آورند و ادعا می‌کنند دنبال توقف جنگند. روی هوش ما اندازهٔ آی کیوی مختصر خودشان حساب کرده‌اند.
ما در شناخت این آمریکایی‌بازی‌ها به مرحلهٔ استاد تمامی رسیده‌ایم و بر این اساس آماده شده‌ایم. اقدامات باید مؤید ادعاها باشد نه ناقض آن‌ها.

— محمدباقر قالیباف | MB Ghalibaf (@mb_ghalibaf) July 20, 2026 Trump claims Iran has been weakened

US President Donald Trump said Iran had been “very, very badly damaged” during the conflict and claimed the country had lost most of its military capability apart from limited missile, drone and manufacturing capacity.

Trump also asserted that the United States controlled the Strait of Hormuz, saying Iran “doesn’t control anything”, while adding, “We’ll see what happens.”

Energy infrastructure hit by strikes

Iran said recent US attacks caused significant damage to parts of its energy and water infrastructure, particularly in the country’s south.

Energy Minister Abbas Aliabadi said the strikes disrupted electricity supplies and that authorities were working to restore power within the next five weeks. He said electricity saved through conservation measures would be redirected to affected southern provinces while repair work continued.

Separately, executive deputy to the president Mohammad Jafar Ghaempanah said attacks on Iran’s energy facilities had reduced natural gas production by about 230 million cubic metres per day since the conflict began in late February. He said the government expects to restore around 100 million cubic metres of daily production in the coming months to ease pressure on the country’s energy sector.

Ghaempanah added that rising summer demand had worsened electricity shortages and said the government was expanding solar power generation while promoting energy conservation to stabilise supplies for households, industries and petrochemical plants.

Tehran warns over Kharg Island

Iran warned the United States against any attempt to seize Kharg Island, the country’s main oil export terminal located off the coast of Bushehr province.

Baghaei said Washington would face “the consequences of any adventure” targeting the strategic island, adding that Iranian forces were prepared to respond to any ground incursion.

Iran seeks IAEA condemnation

Tehran called on the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) to condemn what it described as US strikes on the Darkhovin nuclear power plant, which is under construction in south-west Iran.

Baghaei urged the UN nuclear watchdog and its Director General to clearly condemn the attacks, accusing the United States of targeting a civilian nuclear facility.

Kuwait intercepts Iranian missile and drone attacks

Kuwait’s armed forces said the country’s air defence systems were responding to Iranian missile and drone attacks on Monday, urging residents to remain calm and follow official safety instructions.

In a statement posted on X, the General Staff of the Kuwaiti Army said any explosions heard across the country were the result of air defence systems intercepting incoming hostile targets.

“The General Staff of the Army notes that if explosion sounds are heard, they are the result of air defence systems intercepting the hostile attacks,” the statement said.

تتصدى حالياً الدفاعات الجوية الكويتية لهجمات صاروخية وطائرات مسيرة معادية ، إثر العدوان الإيراني الاثم.

تنوه رئاسة الأركان العامة للجيش أن أصوات الانفجارات إن سمعت فهي نتيجة اعتراض منظومات الدفاع الجوي للهجمات المعادية.

يرجى من الجميع التقيد بتعليمات الأمن والسلامة الصادرة عن… pic.twitter.com/jwLdPMkFge

— KUWAIT ARMY – الجيش الكويتي (@KuwaitArmyGHQ) July 20, 2026 Regional security concerns grow

South Korea urged its citizens to leave the Middle East unless travel was essential, citing the worsening security situation. Seoul also advised Korean vessels operating in the Red Sea to remain on high alert because of increasing maritime risks.

Bahrain’s Defence Force said it had intercepted several Iranian aerial attacks and confirmed that its military remained on high alert to protect the kingdom. Earlier, Bahrain’s civil aviation authority said Iranian drones had targeted the country’s air navigation systems, although air traffic continued without disruption.

US launches Lebanon security initiative

The US State Department announced the launch of three pilot security zones in the southern Lebanese towns of Frun, Sarifa and Zawtar al-Gharbiya under understandings reached between Lebanon and Israel. The initiative is being supervised by the Special Military Coordination Group for Lebanon.

Pentagon weighs wider operations

The Washington Post, citing a US official, reported that Washington was preparing for broader military operations against Iran while increasing the deployment of aircraft to the region.

The report said any expansion could be constrained by dwindling stocks of air defence systems and long-range munitions, with the official expressing concern that the White House underestimated those limitations.

Netanyahu convenes security meeting

Israeli media reported that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was scheduled to hold a security meeting on Monday evening to assess the latest developments following the renewed escalation with Iran.

Benjamin Netanyahu Iran warns against US ground incursion

A deputy commander of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps’ ground forces warned that any American ground incursion into Iran would be repelled immediately.

The warning came as Iranian military officials reiterated that countries assisting the United States or allowing their territories or waterways to be used against Iran would face consequences.

With inputs from Associated Press.

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New Delhi: Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind president Maulana Mahmood Madani on Monday, July 20, expressed serious concern over the demolition order for 38 buildings of Mohammad Ali Jauhar University in Uttar Pradesh’s Rampur and sought reconsideration of the directive.

Madani said the issue raises fundamental questions about the rule of law, natural justice and the State’s constitutional obligations.

He said the demolition would have far-reaching consequences for the educational future of thousands of students, adversely affect their fundamental rights, and result in the loss of an important university that is also a valuable national educational asset.

‘Demolition neither the sole nor the mandatory remedy under law’

Madani said that even where violations of planning or building regulations are established, demolition is neither the sole nor the mandatory remedy under the law.

If a structure does not fundamentally contravene the approved land use or the Master Plan, the authority may consider approval of revised building plans, regularisation, compounding of violations, payment of development charges, or other statutory penalties instead of demolition, he said.

Madani also referred to judicial precedents, including those relating to an engineering college in Kanpur’s Rooma Industrial Area and cases involving Varanasi, Jhansi and Allahabad development authorities in which the courts favoured regularisation, compounding and other statutory corrective measures over immediate demolition.

Madani urges govt to consider lawful alternatives

He urged the Uttar Pradesh government to reconsider the demolition order and give priority to lawful alternatives that would protect this national educational asset while safeguarding the future of thousands of students.

The Rampur Development Authority has ordered the demolition of 38 buildings at Mohammad Ali Jauhar University, founded by jailed Samajwadi Party leader Azam Khan, saying they were constructed without approval of the building plan.

The university argued that the area was outside the RDA’s jurisdiction when the buildings were constructed, a contention rejected by the authority.

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New Delhi: Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Monday, July 20, dubbed Prime Minister Narendra Modi as the “most anti-youth” PM in the country’s history as he accused the government of not just failing the youth but also pouncing on them.

Gandhi’s remarks came after security forces resorted to a baton charge near Parliament Street after thousands of Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) supporters, protesting against the paper leaks, allegedly tried to breach barricades while marching towards Parliament on the first day of the Monsoon session.

As CJP supporters, including students, marched towards Parliament, the police tried to stop them and used teargas and lathi-charged them.

“Prime Minister Modi is the ‘most anti-youth Prime Minister in India’s history — He’s so ‘anti-youth’ that he can’t even take the resignation of a failed Education Minister, Dharmendra Pradhan.

“152 paper leaks. 7.5 crore students victimised. And not a single guilty person punished. Who got the punishment? The hardworking youth,” he said in a post in Hindi on X. He also attached a video message with his post in which he criticised the government and the police for action against the protesting students, whom he supported while terming their demands as “legitimate”. The video also showed pictures of protesting students being beaten up by the cops.

Gandhi said when children raise legitimate questions about education, they are met with batons and detention in response.

“The criminals who leaked the papers roam free — and the students raising valid issues are dragged around, beaten.

“This government is not just failing the youth — it is pouncing on them,” the leader of opposition in Lok Sabha said.

In his video message, Gandhi said this country has a majority of young people and “Prime Minister Narendra Modi is the most anti-youth prime minister India has ever had.”

He said the boys and girls who are walking the streets of Delhi are not criminals and they are demanding their rights.

“Their rights are to have an education system that respects them, to have an education system that is fair, to have an education system that is working. There’s absolutely nothing wrong in what they are doing. And it is disgusting what the government is doing and what the police is doing.

“This is absolutely no way to behave. Tear-gassing students, lathi-charging students is not democratic; it is not India’s way, and it is not the way it should be done. They have legitimate demands. The prime minister should accept these demands and do something about it,” he said.

The Congress leader claimed that everybody is “sick and tired” of the way our education system is functioning.

“Everybody is sick and tired of how the RSS has captured our education system and how all our institutions are being run by one organisation. This is a natural response that the young people of India are making, and it should be respected,” he noted.

Gandhi said they have been raising this issue not for weeks or months, but for years as a fundamental problem.

“Modi disrespects all the young people of this country. All they believe in is ‘asatya and hinsa’ which are the anti-India principles,” he alleged while attacking the prime minister for not agreeing to the demands of protesting students.

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Tumakuru: Two persons were killed after a lorry plunged nearly 50 metres into a quarry pit following a road collapse in a mining area under Huliyurdurga police station limits in Kunigal taluk of Tumakuru district on Monday.

According to police, the accident occurred when the empty lorry was taking a U-turn near the quarry. The road reportedly caved in, causing the vehicle to lose balance and roll into the deep quarry. The impact of the fall was so severe that the lorry was completely mangled.

The victims were identified as Akshay (30), a native of Jharkhand, and Sahadev (25), who hailed from Madhya Pradesh. Both sustained fatal injuries and died on the spot before any rescue operation could be launched.

Police said the lorry was not carrying any load at the time of the accident. Preliminary investigations indicate that the road adjoining the mining area collapsed while the vehicle was manoeuvring, leading to the tragedy.

Huliyurdurga police rushed to the spot, inspected the accident site and initiated rescue operations. The bodies were later shifted to BGS Hospital for post-mortem examination.

A case has been registered at Huliyurdurga Police Station, and further investigation is underway to ascertain the exact cause of the road collapse and whether any negligence by the quarry operators or other authorities contributed to the fatal accident.

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Bengaluru: Chennamma Deve Gowda, wife of former Prime Minister HD Deve Gowda, was laid to rest with full state honours at the foothills of the Bettada Ranganathaswamy Temple near Haradanahalli, the native village of the former Prime Minister in Karnataka, on Monday, July 20.

Thousands of people, political leaders and admirers gathered to pay their last respects to the matriarch of the Gowda family.

Following the floral tributes by dignitaries, the Karnataka Police accorded full state honours with a three-round gun salute, followed by the National Anthem. A two-minute silence was observed in her memory before Chief Minister DK Shivakumar handed over the National Flag to HD Deve Gowda’s family.

Her last rites were performed at the foothills of Ranganatha Swami Betta in Mavinakere village of Holenarasipura taluk in Hassan district. (Source: PTI)

In an emotional gesture, the Chief Minister also bowed before the former Prime Minister and touched his feet to seek his blessings.

The final rites began with purification rituals, after which HD Deve Gowda and family members performed the last religious ceremonies. Priests chanted Vedic hymns as the mortal remains were taken in a ceremonial procession around the burial site three times before the last rites were conducted according to the customs of the Vokkaliga community.

Political differences took a back seat as senior leaders across party lines gathered at Mavinakere to pay their last respects. (Source: PTI)

The funeral rites were performed by the couple’s elder son HD Ramesh. After sprinkling holy Ganga water at the burial site, the body was lowered into the grave and the final rituals were completed amid prayers and chants.

Earlier in the day, Union Ministers Prahlad Joshi, HD Kumaraswamy, V Somanna and Shivraj Singh Chouhan, Chief Minister DK Shivakumar, Legislative Council Chairman Basavaraj Horatti, Ministers KJ George and KH Muniyappa, BJP State President BY Vijayendra, MP BY Raghavendra, seers including Dr Nirmalananda Swamiji and Rambhapuri Sri, legislators, MPs and several dignitaries offered floral tributes to Chennamma.

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Bengaluru: The Karnataka State Muslim Federation has announced a statewide campaign from July 20 to August 5, urging the Congress government to fulfil promises made to the Muslim community in its 2023 Assembly election manifesto. The campaign will be held across the state, culminating in a major convention in Davanagere.

Addressing a press conference in Bengaluru, Federation Convenor Suhail Ahmed Maroor said the Congress had assured restoration of the 2B reservation, stringent legal action against hate speech and hate crimes, amendments to the anti-cow slaughter law, withdrawal of the anti-conversion law, implementation of the caste survey report and a Rs 10,000 crore budget allocation for minorities.

He said the manifesto had also promised protection of Waqf properties, political representation for Muslims in proportion to their population, measures to improve educational opportunities for the community and an appropriate political strategy on the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) issue.

Maroor alleged that despite the government completing three years in office, only the withdrawal of the hijab restriction in educational institutions had been implemented, while the remaining commitments continued to remain pending.

He recalled that the Federation had organised a convention in Bengaluru in May and submitted a memorandum to the government along with a detailed report highlighting issues faced by the Muslim community. However, no concrete action had followed, he claimed.

The Federation warned that failure to honour the manifesto commitments could weaken the trust reposed by the Muslim community in the government. As part of the awareness campaign, meetings and outreach programmes will be organised across Karnataka.

The campaign will conclude with a large public convention in Davanagere, where the Federation plans to release a booklet detailing the Congress manifesto promises and issues affecting Muslims. Another convention is also being planned in Mangaluru. Federation convenors Yahya Damudi, Harris Siddiqui and Aihur Khazi were also present at the press conference.

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Yemen’s Iran-backed Houthi movement on Monday, July 20, announced an immediate maritime ban on Saudi Arabia, describing the measure as retaliation for what it called Riyadh’s long-running blockade of Yemen.

In a televised statement, Houthi military spokesperson Yahya Saree said the embargo had taken effect immediately under a “siege for siege” principle.

The Houthis accused Saudi Arabia of imposing restrictions on Yemen’s ports and airports by land, sea and air for nearly 12 years, alleging that the measures had worsened the country’s humanitarian crisis and depleted its resources.

Saree warned that any further Saudi military escalation would be met with a “comprehensive and harsh” response, adding that Houthi forces were prepared for “all options”.

The group also called for nationwide mobilisation, urging supporters to remain prepared for all scenarios and reinforce front-line positions.

Tensions escalate

The announcement comes amid renewed clashes between Houthi forces and Yemen’s internationally recognised government, which is backed by a Saudi-led coalition. Fighting has been reported in the governorates of Al-Jawf, Al-Dhale’ and Taiz after years of relative calm.

The maritime ban follows Houthi missile and drone attacks on Saudi Arabia’s Abha International Airport last week. The group said the strikes were carried out in retaliation for airstrikes it blamed on Saudi Arabia that targeted Sana’a International Airport earlier the same day.

The attacks marked the first publicly claimed Houthi strikes on Saudi Arabia since an informal truce took effect in March 2022 following earlier attacks on Saudi energy infrastructure.

The renewed hostilities threaten to deepen Yemen’s prolonged conflict, which has already created one of the world’s worst humanitarian and economic crises.

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Hyderabad: Telangana Director General of Police (DGP) CV Anand on Monday, July 20, warned that any attempt to turn police welfare schemes into a “business racket” would not be tolerated, as he chaired a review of the Police Welfare Society and the Arogya Bhadratha health scheme at the DGP office here.

Anand asked officials to uphold ethical standards to ensure welfare schemes served their intended purpose, cautioning that misuse of funds by a few for personal gain could adversely affect thousands of police families. 

He said the welfare of police personnel and their families remained the department’s top priority and directed officials to strengthen education, medical, marriage assistance and insurance schemes.

Health scheme covered over 33,000 in 2025

Officials told the meeting that 33,126 police personnel and their family members had availed treatment under the Arogya Bhadratha scheme in 2025, while 12,392 had used the scheme till June 2026. The department spent Rs 181.74 crore on the scheme in 2025 and Rs 73.61 crore till June this year, they said.

The DGP said families of police personnel who die in the line of duty were provided financial protection through a Group Personal Accidental Insurance policy, under which Constables and Assistant Sub-Inspectors are covered for Rs 5 lakh, Sub-Inspectors and Inspectors for Rs 10 lakh, Deputy Superintendents of Police (DSP) for Rs 15 lakh, and Indian Police Service (IPS) officers and above for Rs 25 lakh.

Anand said merit and meritorious scholarships were being extended to police children, along with special financial assistance for students preparing for JEE, NEET and other national and state-level competitive examinations. 

He directed that income from police canteens and commercial complexes be channelled towards the Young India Police School, education for police children, coaching for civil services and group examinations, scholarships and marriage assistance, and asked officials to increase the budget allocated for these programmes.

Digital platform, low-interest loans planned

The DGP asked officials to expand the use of technology in welfare and health administration, including setting up a comprehensive digital platform to record beneficiary details, fund utilisation and service delivery, and to form rank-wise welfare committees. He also directed that rents for the department’s commercial complexes be fixed transparently.

Anand instructed officials to ensure eligible personnel had access to low-interest loans, including open-plot loans at 9 per cent, home loans at 6.75 per cent, personal loans of up to Rs 5 lakh at 11 per cent, up to Rs 6 lakh for a daughter’s marriage and up to Rs 30 lakh for higher education in India or abroad.

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Bhopal: The Uniform Civil Code (UCC) Bill has been approved by the Madhya Pradesh Cabinet Committee meeting held at the historic Jagdishpur Fort, earlier known as Islam Nagar, on Sunday, July 19.

Chief Minister Dr Mohan Yadav has said that, as far as the UCC Bill was concerned, only one marriage would be recognised in the state. He said divorce would not be granted by merely uttering ‘Talaq’ thrice and would only be possible through a proper legal process. “The UCC Bill respects all religions and no effort has been made to demean any religion. Everyone is free to practice their own religion,” he said.

“Through this bill, we believe Madhya Pradesh is moving towards establishing a major law that will provide equal rights and opportunities to everyone, whether Ram or Rahim. Before implementing this Act, although a bill is passed in the Legislative Assembly, we wanted to connect directly with the common people and communicate the details,” the CM said.

Live-in relationships must be registered

The UCC Bill mandates registration of live-in relationships within one month.

The marriage age has been fixed, and the registration of marriages has been made mandatory. Equal rights in property have been ensured for men and women.

More than 80 per cent of women backed the UCC Bill, he said. Yadav said the government had formed a committee to seek public suggestions on the UCC. Suggestions were also taken from political parties. However, the Congress distanced itself from the hearing held on the UCC. He appealed to all political parties to rise above party lines and support the implementation of the UCC.

UCC prohibits polygamy, makes monogamy mandatory

The draft UCC prohibits polygamy and makes monogamy mandatory across all communities. It also provides for imprisonment and fines for violations of provisions related to live-in relationships.

However, if a child is born out of a live-in relationship, the child will be considered legitimate. In case of desertion by a man, a woman in a live-in relationship can seek maintenance. The Bill proposes three months’ imprisonment or a fine of Rs 10,000 if a couple lives together without registration.

For furnishing incorrect information, it proposes three months’ imprisonment or a fine of Rs 25,000. Similarly, six months’ imprisonment and a fine of Rs 25,000 may be imposed on a person who fails to appear before the registrar despite receiving a notice.

The UCC claims to aim to provide protection to women and empower them by ending discrimination under separate personal laws related to marriage, divorce, and succession.

It seeks to establish a uniform civil law governing private matters such as marriage, divorce, maintenance arising out of marital disputes, succession, and live-in relationships.

The draft states that a woman can seek annulment of her marriage if her husband has impregnated another woman during the subsistence of the marriage. It also states that ‘Nikah Halala’ will be treated as a criminal offence.

Term ‘illegitimate’ removed

Under provisions relating to children’s rights and custody, the term “illegitimate” has been removed. All children will have equal rights, whether they are biological, adopted or born through surrogacy. Parents will also have equal rights in the property of their deceased son, at par with the deceased’s wife and children.

Moreover, a person accused of killing, or assisting in the murder of, a property owner will become ineligible to inherit that property. If a person has no legal heir, the property will be transferred to the state government.

Freedom of will

Under this, any mentally sound person can give self-earned property and ancestral property to anyone through the medium of a will.

The property of a person who dies without leaving a will is divided into three categories – class 1, class 2 and other relatives. The unit system and survivorship right have been implemented for previous generations.

Meanwhile, the Opposition demanded a discussion on the alleged land purchases linked to the Chief Minister. The UCC Bill, 2026, was tabled on the opening day of the five-day monsoon session, even as Congress members demanded an urgent debate on the alleged land scam in Ujjain.

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Hyderabad: Abu Dhabi-based carrier Etihad Airways has launched a limited-time global fare sale, offering travellers up to 20 per cent off on Economy and Business Class fares to more than 30 destinations, including India.

The offer is valid for bookings made between July 20 and July 26, 2026, with travel scheduled from August 1 to November 30, 2026. It is available for departures from 11 Indian cities — Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, Chennai, Hyderabad, Jaipur, Kochi, Kolkata, Kozhikode, Mumbai, New Delhi and Thiruvananthapuram.

Destinations and fares

The promotion covers a mix of leisure and business destinations across Etihad’s network, including Zanzibar, Salalah, Kraków, Palma de Mallorca, Abu Dhabi, Amsterdam, Paris, Prague, Malaga, Chicago, Charlotte and Atlanta.

As part of the sale, Economy Class round-trip fares from Hyderabad to Abu Dhabi start at Rs 53,418. The airline said discounted fares are available across participating routes, subject to availability.

Offer details

The discount applies to the base fare only and excludes taxes, fuel surcharges and other applicable fees. It is available on selected one-way and return fares in Economy (Basic and Value) and Business (Value and Comfort) fare categories.

Passengers must ensure they have valid visas and travel documents before travel. Flight restrictions, blackout periods, weekend and peak travel surcharges may apply, while airport taxes will be confirmed at the time of booking.

Business Class benefits

In addition to discounted fares, Business Class travellers will receive priority airport services, lounge access, spacious cabins, gourmet dining and personalised onboard service.

Passengers transiting through Abu Dhabi may also be eligible for Etihad’s stopover programme, which offers up to two complimentary hotel nights on selected itineraries, subject to the airline’s terms and conditions.

Etihad said the promotional fares are subject to availability and may be amended or withdrawn without prior notice.

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Hyderabad: Trainee Indian Police Service (IPS) officer M Uday Krishna Reddy, who was earlier reported to have attempted suicide, lost consciousness on Monday morning, July 20, due to excessive alcohol consumption since Sunday night, doctors treating him said, revising the initial account of the incident.

Doctors at Jayanti Hospital in SR Nagar, where Reddy has been undergoing treatment since morning, said blood tests found no poisonous substance in his body.

Speaking to reporters at the hospital, Reddy’s younger brother said Uday Krishna was found unconscious around 6 am on Monday at a family friend’s residence in Moti Nagar, Erragadda, following which he was rushed to the hospital. He said his brother’s condition was now stable.

The brother said Reddy had been under severe mental distress since news of the sexual harassment case against him began being reported in the media on Sunday, July 19. He said alcohol and sanitiser bottles were found in the room where Reddy was discovered unconscious, leading the family to suspect he may have consumed the two together.

Reports earlier in the day had said Reddy attempted suicide, though the exact circumstances were unclear until doctors disclosed the alcohol consumption.

Case dates back to June 23

Before he lost consciousness, Reddy had posted on social media on Sunday night asking the media to verify facts before reporting the allegations against him, calling the complaint baseless and expressing confidence in the legal process.

A case was registered against Reddy on Sunday for allegedly sexually harassing and assaulting a female trainee IPS officer. According to the first information report (FIR), he had been harassing the complainant since June 23, sending her abusive messages and making derogatory remarks in front of other trainees, besides accusing her of being in a relationship with another trainee officer and forcing her to show her personal chats.

The National Police Academy’s Privileges Committee had suspended Reddy pending an investigation after examining the complainant’s statement and closed circuit television (CCTV) footage from the academy.

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“By 2030, I want Hyderabad to become the fitness capital of India,” says Rishikesh Kumar, founder of XtraLiving, a fitness centre in Hitech City.

It is a bold declaration, but for him, it is a roadmap. For years, the city’s workout culture revolved around a predictable routine: heavy bench presses, dead lifts and post-workout protein shakes. But now, a shift is happening across Hyderabad’s gym floors. Aesthetic vanity metrics are giving way to endurance, functional strength and competitive sweat.

XtraLiving is driving this change by partnering with HYROX, the fitness phenomenon dubbed “the marathon of functional fitness.” For those who do not know, HYROX combines alternating 1 km runs with eight standardised functional movement stations, such as heavy sled pushes, sandbag lunges and wall balls. Originating in Germany in 2017, the HYROX trend exploded in India in May 2025 when it debuted in Mumbai.

Now, Hyderabad’s fitness community is proving it wants a piece of the action too.

Mini HYROX organized by Wellness B’zaar (Image Source: Special Arrangement) Hacking the HYROX trend for Hyderabad

When the global buzz around HYROX reached a fever pitch across India, Wellness B’zaar saw an opportunity to bring the world’s fastest-growing fitness format directly to the city’s doorstep.

“We are known for curating formats that are serious and athletic, and because HYROX is being talked about so much, we knew people in Hyderabad wanted to experience that same energy,” explains Puja Khan, co-founder of Wellness B’zaar.

Rather than waiting for the global tour to arrive in the city, Wellness B’zaar partnered with XtraLiving, the official HYROX training club in Hyderabad, to hack the format through a Mini HYROX that took place on July 19.

“Hyderabad is not completely ready for a full-scale official HYROX race yet due to space constraints,” Puja says. “So we created a ‘Mini’ version, scaling the total running down from 8 km to 4 km while keeping all the functional movement stations intact.”

The result? A high-adrenaline morning that served as a proving ground for serious fitness enthusiasts testing their readiness for HYROX. For Puja, bringing HYROX to the city is part of a larger, noticeable shift in how young Hyderabadis choose to spend their weekends.

“We are seeing a trend where people want to do something active on a Sunday morning rather than just lying in bed,” Puja tells Siasat.com. “That is why we have come up with the concept of Sunday Socials, where we keep bringing new fitness formats to spark a conversation. Now people want to learn about exercise physiology, the science behind movement, recovery, and nutrition. The fitness craze is real, and as Wellness B’zaar, we’re thrilled to be the first in the city to curate different experiences like mat Pilates, boot camps, sound therapy, and guided meditation for enthusiasts.”

View this post on Instagram The shift on Hyderabad’s gym floor

For Rishikesh Kumar, the surge in HYROX participation proves that Hyderabad’s athletes are moving away from traditional bodybuilding in favour of practical, real-world conditioning.

“In the market, people often equate building big muscles with being fit, which is the wrong way to look at it,” says Rishikesh. “Fitness requires mobility, strength, and endurance. Your goal should be to live your life well and manage day-to-day functionality. HYROX tests every aspect- you have to be strong, fast, and able to work under fatigue.”

That philosophy is paying off. Since XtraLiving became an official HYROX partner gym, weekend turnout for functional training has exploded from just 10 to 15 participants in 2017 to over 150 to 200 people showing up for weekly HYROX simulations today.

For the athletes on the floor, the race format provides something standard weightlifting lacks: a clear benchmark.

Ronak, a 28-year-old local entrepreneur who trained for three months leading up to the Mini HYROX, describes the experience as a reality check.

“I used to lift heavy, drink protein, and eat big, but I couldn’t run and constantly felt bloated,” Ronak shares. “Working out without a target is like preparing for an exam that never happens. HYROX is that exam, it tests your actual strength and stamina.”

Ronak has already registered for the official full-scale HYROX event in Mumbai this September, using the Hyderabad Mini event as a crucial dry run to practice.

Looking around the packed gym floor, he sees a city on the brink of something much bigger. “There used to be a time when I would go for a run in Banjara Hills and hardly see anyone my age. Now, it is practically a runner’s traffic jam. Whenever an official HYROX event finally comes to Hyderabad, it’s going to be massive.”

View this post on Instagram

While infrastructure viability discussions for a stadium-sized event are still ongoing, the appetite is undeniable. Hyderabad is not just warming up for the HYROX trend, it is already running the race.

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New Delhi: The Supreme Court on Monday, July 20, cautioned against politicising the alleged theft of donations meant for the Ram temple in Ayodhya, as it heard a batch of petitions seeking a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) investigation and an independent audit of the temple trust’s finances.

“It is a simple case of commission of offence… we are cautioning — do not politicise this issue,” Chief Justice of India (CJI) Surya Kant said, heading a bench that also included Justices Joymalya Bagchi and V Mohana.

Indicating that it would pass some directions in the matter, the bench put off further hearing to go through a status report filed by the Uttar Pradesh government on the investigation so far.

Eight arrested, probe underway: Centre

Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, the Centre’s top law officer, told the court that the state police was investigating the allegations and that eight people had been arrested so far. “State police is investigating… it has found that (a) cognisable offence was made out. I can’t divulge much as it is an ongoing investigation,” he said.

The CJI said the bench would examine the status report placed before it and asked the Solicitor General to take instructions on reconstituting the Special Investigation Team (SIT) that the Uttar Pradesh government had earlier set up to probe the matter. 

He stressed that the investigation must be fair, transparent and carried to its logical conclusion.

Court declines website disclosure

Senior advocate Devadatt Kamat, appearing for some of the petitioners, raised concerns about gold and silver articles allegedly going missing and donations not being properly accounted for. He suggested that receipts issued to devotees during the temple’s construction be put up on a website so donors could verify whether their contributions had reached the trust.

The CJI did not agree to disclosure on a website, noting that there could be false claims of donations having been made, which would make such a step impractical. He said instead that proper records must be maintained wherever a receipt had been issued. 

On a separate submission that digital evidence such as closed circuit television (CCTV) footage be preserved, the Solicitor General assured the court that this was already being done. The bench did not pass any order on a plea to upload the police first information report (FIR) and status report online for the petitioners’ benefit, and also questioned why multiple parties needed to separately approach the court over the same issue.

Petitions before the Supreme Court

The case arises from at least four separate pleas. The first was filed by Narendra Kumar Goswami, seeking a CBI probe as well as an audit by the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) of the Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust, which manages the temple. 

A second plea, by Ajay Kumar Rai and Dinesh Kumar Yadav, seeks similar directions for a CBI investigation and measures by the Centre, the Uttar Pradesh government and the trust to safeguard donors’ interests, arguing that the allegations have caused widespread concern among those who supported the Ram temple movement, regardless of whether they are eventually proven.

A third petition, filed by Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) MP Sudhakar Singh, seeks a Supreme Court-monitored forensic audit of the trust’s entire finances alongside a CBI probe, and asks that all financial records, including physical documents, digital ledgers, UPI transaction logs and bank statements, be preserved to prevent tampering. 

The fourth petition, by the Hindu Dharma Parishad, seeks a top court-monitored probe into the donation allegations.

Separately, the Allahabad High Court has declined to entertain similar pleas seeking a high-level probe, to avoid parallel proceedings running alongside the Supreme Court case. 

An FIR has already been registered by the Uttar Pradesh Police following a preliminary inquiry by the state-appointed SIT. 

The Nirmohi Akhara has also separately approached the Supreme Court seeking that the trust be restructured as a public trust, arguing that its present structure lacks adequate accountability and does not reflect the spirit of the top court’s 2019 Ayodhya verdict.

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Hyderabad: Several All India Majlis e Ittehad Ul Muslimeen (AIMIM) legislators were seen joining in a rendition of Vande Mataram at a Telangana government event in Hyderabad on Monday, July 20, a departure from the party’s walkout from the national song during the Assembly session in March this year.

Nampally MLA Majid Hussain and Malakpet MLA Ahmed Balala bin Abdullah Balala, Charminar MLA Zulfeqar were among those seen participating in the rendition of the national song at the launch of the Indiramma Housing Towers scheme, held at G-29 in the Dr BR Ambedkar Telangana State Secretariat, according to visuals circulating on social media. Siasat.com could not independently verify additional details of the rendition beyond what was shared online.

The event itself was a state government function to roll out low-income group housing under the Core Urban Region Economy, or CURE, initiative. Ministers Ponguleti Srinivasa Reddy, Ponnam Prabhakar, Duddilla Sridhar Babu and Mohammed Azharuddin jointly launched the scheme and released its brochure, outlining eligibility criteria and the application process for beneficiaries. MLAs, MLCs, district collectors and other officials attended the programme. The government plans to construct one lakh LIG houses under the scheme, with an initial phase of 500 houses in each Assembly constituency within Hyderabad’s core urban limits.

The appearance of AIMIM leaders standing for Vande Mataram has come after several AIMIM MLAs and MLCs had walked out of the Telangana Assembly on March 16 while the national song was being played before and after Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla’s customary address. The move elicited harsh criticism from Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leaders such as Union Minister Bandi Sanjay Kumar and the State BJP President, N Ramchander Rao, who later moved an appeal to the Governor to have AIMIM MLAs suspended.

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There are footballers who win trophies, and then there are footballers who redefine an era. At just 19, Lamine Yamal has done both.

Days after celebrating his birthday, the Barcelona wonderkid stood on football’s biggest stage and helped Spain lift the 2026 FIFA World Cup, defeating Argentina one-nil in an unforgettable final. While substitute Ferran Torres scored the decisive winner in the 106th minute of extra time, it was Yamal who walked away as one of the tournament’s biggest stars.

From his emotional embrace with Lionel Messi after the final whistle, a moment fans have described as the symbolic “passing of the torch”, to social media exploding with claims that he has already “completed football” before turning 20, Yamal has become the face of a new generation.

As the teenager trends across the globe following Spain’s historic triumph, attention has now shifted beyond the football pitch to another fascinating question. Just how much is the young superstar worth?

Lamine Yamal’s net worth in 2026 View this post on Instagram

According to multiple online reports available while filing this copy, Lamine Yamal’s net worth is reportedly around USD 40 million.His earnings have seen a remarkable rise over the past year thanks to his performances for Barcelona, Spain and an ever-growing list of commercial endorsements. Industry experts believe the World Cup victory will significantly boost both his brand value and earning potential in the coming months.

How much does Lamine Yamal earn at Barcelona?

Reports suggest Barcelona currently pay Yamal an annual base salary estimated between USD 18 million and USD 21.5 million.

The teenage sensation has rapidly become one of the club’s most valuable assets, with his contract reflecting his growing importance both on and off the field.

View this post on Instagram Social media boom after World Cup success

Lamine Yamal’s popularity has skyrocketed throughout the FIFA World Cup. According to sports analytics reports, he reportedly gained over 8 million Instagram followers since the tournament began on June 11. His Instagram following has now crossed 53 million, while his TikTok account has surpassed 58 million followers, making him one of the most influential footballers of his generation on social media.

Endorsements driving massive wealth

Beyond football, Lamine Yamal’s commercial appeal has also exploded. Reports estimate that his endorsement deals generate approximately USD 10 million annually. In 2024, he signed a landmark 10-year partnership with Adidas, a deal reportedly valued at around USD 34 million.

Apart from Adidas, the young footballer is also associated with several leading global brands, further strengthening his position as one of the sport’s most marketable athletes.

Lamine Yamal’s net worth expected to rise after World Cup triumph

Financial analysts and industry experts believe Spain’s World Cup victory could dramatically increase Yamal’s commercial value. According to Bleap Finance and other online reports, his net worth is projected to reach around EUR 60 million in the near future as luxury fashion, technology and international brands continue to compete for partnerships with the Barcelona star.

View this post on Instagram

With a World Cup title already added to his glittering resume at just 19, Lamine Yamal’s rise appears only to be beginning. As football welcomes its newest global icon, both his sporting achievements and financial empire are expected to grow at an extraordinary pace in the years ahead.

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London: Andy Burnham, newly elected leader of the Labour Party, on Monday, July 20, took charge as the UK’s new Prime Minister.

King Charles III invited the 56-year-old former mayor of Greater Manchester to form a new government following the resignation of Keir Starmer moments earlier to mark the formal handover of power.

“The Rt. Hon. Sir Keir Starmer MP had an audience of the King this morning and tendered his resignation as Prime Minister and First Lord of the Treasury, which His Majesty was graciously pleased to accept,” a Buckingham Palace spokesperson said.

Burnham, elected Labour leader unopposed last week, is expected to get to work as PM immediately by announcing his picks for Cabinet. The country’s fifth Prime Minister in four years has pledged to bring in “stable and responsible” politics.

Earlier, Starmer delivered his final address from 10 Downing Street as Britain’s Prime Minister before making his way to meet the King to formally tender his resignation.

“My work is done,” he said.

The 63-year-old Labour MP, who announced his decision to step down last month, said he was “passing the baton” to Burnham, who had his “full support”.

“I go with good grace, I go with a smile and I go proud of everything that we have achieved,” said Starmer.

His Cabinet colleagues and officials lined up to applaud his departure from Downing Street after two years, having won a landslide election for Labour in the July 2024 general election.

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Patna: A political row erupted in Bihar on Monday, July 20, over the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government’s plans to paint more than 500 newly inaugurated model schools saffron, with the opposition All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) alleging it as an attempt at “saffronisation” and the ruling alliance defending the move.

Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary on Sunday inaugurated 551 model schools, and according to sources in the education department, officials have been directed to paint all the Saraswati Vidya Niketan schools saffron instead of conventional colours such as pink, sky blue or yellow.

While NDA partners, including the JD(U), headed by former Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, who always prided himself on “secular” credentials, defended the move, AIMIM alleged it was an attempt at “saffronisation”.

State AIMIM president Akhtarul Iman alleged the government was trying to promote a particular religion using taxpayers’ money.

“This government is not only saffronising schools but the entire nation. It is demolishing mosques and igniting animosity among people in the name of mosques and temples. It has led to the disrobing of democracy,” he told reporters outside the Assembly.

He claimed that the move would harm the country’s social fabric and democratic values.

“The future of the country is being harmed. The social unity and love that existed are not visible among the new generation. This is not a good sign for democracy or any civilised society,” he said.

Education Minister Mithilesh Tiwari rejected the criticism and accused the opposition of trying to create a controversy over colours.

“We should not create a wedge on the basis of colours. Today, we have made high-tech educational arrangements for children, irrespective of their faith. This, however, doesn’t sit well with the opposition. But they should remain assured that we will not allow the return of Charwaha Vidyalaya,” he said.

Charwaha Vidyalaya was a characteristic feature of the erstwhile RJD government, which later came under criticism for lagging in the education sector.

The minister said saffron symbolises Goddess Saraswati and prosperity, and asserted that the government remained committed to improving the quality of education.

Food and Consumer Protection Minister and senior JD(U) leader Ashok Choudhary said the opposition should focus on whether the quality of education had improved during the NDA’s two decades in power instead of raising objections over the colour of school buildings.

Echoing the same view, JD(U) MLC Khalid Anwar said that the government believes in “politics of development” and not in “politics of colour.”

“More than 500 model schools were opened in Bihar, which aligns with Nitish Kumar’s agenda. More schools will be opened in the future. This is a good move, but if anyone is fixated on colour controversy, then this is not a good thing,” he said.

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Hyderabad: Members of the Students Federation of India (SFI) who were holding a 24-hour hunger strike in Hyderabad against the alleged NEET UG paper leak were detained by the Chikkadpally Police on Monday, July 20.

The hunger strike, led by SFI state president S Rajinikanth and secretary T Nagaraju, was held in solidarity with an ongoing protest at Jantar Mantar in Delhi. The students demanded the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan and the abolition of the National Testing Agency (NTA).

Videos shared on social media showed police forcibly detaining the students, who were raising slogans demanding the minister’s resignation. Rajinikanth and Nagaraju were among those detained, according to the visuals.

Members of the Student Federation of India( SFI) who organised a hunger strike against the NEET paper leak in Hyderabad, on Monday, July 20, were detained by the Chikkadpally police.

The SFI initiated a 24 hour hunger strike led by President S Rajinikanth and Secretary T… pic.twitter.com/FXtt0Sufbw

— The Siasat Daily (@TheSiasatDaily) July 20, 2026 Tear gas, detentions mark Delhi protest

The Hyderabad protest came on a day marked by a heavy crackdown in Delhi, where police used tear gas and resorted to a lathi-charge against supporters of the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), a youth-led movement that has been protesting at Jantar Mantar since June over alleged NEET-UG irregularities. 

CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke was among those detained as the group attempted to march towards Parliament.

Both Houses of Parliament were adjourned several times on the opening day of the Monsoon Session amid opposition protests demanding a discussion on the NEET-UG paper leak and the health of activist Sonam Wangchuk, who has been on an indefinite hunger strike since June 28 and is currently undergoing treatment at Safdarjung Hospital in Delhi.

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Hyderabad: Telangana Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy will visit his assembly constituency of Kodangal in Vikarabad district on July 21 and 22 to inspect the ongoing construction of an “education hub” and other development works.

Reddy would examine the works of the education hub at Hakimpet village on July 21 evening, followed by a review of all development works in the constituency, an official release said.

The chief minister would stay in Kodangal for the night.

He will hold a meeting with local leaders and Booth Level Agents (BLAs) of the ruling Congress on the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls on July 22 morning before returning to Hyderabad, it said.

Reddy said on May 8 that Kodangal would emerge as a hub of education and industries.

He said a number of educational institutions such as medical, engineering, nursing and polytechnic colleges, an Advanced Technology Centre (ATC, erstwhile ITI) and a Sainik School are being established in Kodangal which was once a backward area.

The development of this educational hub would be completed within one-and-a-half years, he said.

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Hyderabad: The Hyderabad Traffic Police announced traffic diversions on July 21 and 22, in view of the Balkampet Yellamma Kalyanam and Rathotsavam to be held at the Balkampet Yellamma Temple.

Commuters are advised to avoid roads leading to the temple and use the alternate routes.

Diversions

Vehicles coming from Greenlands, Matha Temple and Satyam Theatre towards Balkampet Yellamma Temple, Fateh Nagar Flyover and Fateh Nagar will be diverted at SR Nagar T-Junction towards SR Nagar Community Hall – Abhilasha Towers – BK Guda X Road – Sriram Nagar X Road – Sanath Nagar/Fateh Nagar Road.

Traffic from Fateh Nagar Flyover heading towards Balkampet Temple will not be allowed.

Vehicles will be diverted at New Bridge (Hyderabad Kitchen Mart) via the Railway Under Bridge (RUB) towards Kattamaisamma Temple, Begumpet.

Vehicles travelling from Greenlands – Bakul Apartments – Food World towards Balkampet will be diverted at Food World X Roads towards Sonabai Temple – Satyam Theatre – Maitrivanam/SR Nagar T-Junction.

Traffic from Begumpet and Kattamaisamma Temple towards Balkampet Temple will not be permitted, but will be allowed towards Greenlands via Begumpet Flyover – Matha Temple – Satyam Theatre – Maitrivanam.

All by-lanes and link roads between SR Nagar T-Junction and Fateh Nagar will remain closed during the festival period.

Parking points for devotees

These are the designated traffic points for devotees:

• R&B Office
• GHMC Ground
• Padma Shree Apartments, DK Road towards Nature Cure Hospital (roadside parking)
• Fateh Nagar Under Bridge
• Nature Cure Hospital
• GHMC Playground
• Sanath Nagar

Commuters should plan their travel in advance and use the designated diversion routes to ensure smooth vehicular movement.

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Ayodhya: In the wake of the donation embezzlement row, the Ram Temple trust in Ayodhya has deployed a new team for the counting of cash offerings in donation boxes, introducing a two-shift system under the supervision of the State Bank of India (SBI), according to temple and bank sources.

The exercise began on Sunday after the completion of a week-long trial, following which the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust formally entrusted SBI with the counting process, bank sources said.

According to temple sources, a team of 10 to 12 people has been deployed in each shift. The first shift operates from 8 am to 2 pm, while the second runs from 2 pm to 8 pm.

The trust has appointed Shobhnath Mishra as the new in-charge for cash counting after the previous in-charge, Subhash Shrivastava, was sent to jail in the donation theft case, sources said.

To strengthen oversight, the trust has deployed four supervisors, including an ex-serviceman as the counting in-charge.

Trust Security In-charge and former Army officer Capt K K Tiwari has been designated the senior in-charge responsible for daily reporting of the counting process.

Former defence personnel S P Dubey and Sheshmani Tiwari have also been appointed as trust representatives to supervise the cash-counting exercise, the sources added.

The embezzlement of Ram temple donations came to light in the first week of June, following which the Uttar Pradesh government constituted a Special Investigation Team (SIT) on June 13 to probe the allegations.

Following the submission of the preliminary SIT report on June 23, an FIR was registered on June 25 and eight accused — Avinash Shukla, Anukalp Mishra, Lavkush Mishra, Manish Kumar Yadav, Karunesh Pandey, Ramashankar Mishra, Subhash Srivastava and Ramashankar Yadav alias Tinnu Yadav — were arrested.

During the investigation, police have recovered cash from multiple accused, with the highest recovery of Rs 20.39 lakh from Avinash Shukla, besides gold, silver, foreign currency and a donation box labelled “Ramrajya Kosh”.

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