National News

Bombay High Court acquitted a 19-year-old accused and modified the punishment for another in a sexual harassment case involving a minor, ruling that a single instance of following does not constitute stalking under IPC or Pocso Act. The prosecution must demonstrate repeated or constant contact.

Contests of skill and knowledge in equal measures for students

The Nagpur bench of the Bombay high court addressed concerns over tourists cornering a tigress and her cubs in Umred-Pauni-Karhandla Sanctuary. Criticizing the forest officials' failure to prevent such incidents, the court demanded a report on actions taken and proposed measures. Violators face potential imprisonment or fines under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972.

Trade and tourism between China and Pakistan have halted for the fourth day due to a protest on the Karakoram Highway over power outages in Gilgit-Baltistan. The blockade has stranded 700 trucks and disrupted economic activities, affecting both imports and exports. Tourists are also turning back due to the situation.

Trump reacted swiftly to Trudeau’s resignation, suggesting Canada should consider becoming the 51st state of the US. He cited economic benefits and increased security from threats. Trump has previously criticized Canada’s trade practices and suggested high-profile Canadians like Wayne Gretzky could hold leadership roles post-merger, reflecting strained US-Canada relations.

The Yemeni embassy in India stated that Yemeni president Rashad Mohammed Al-Alimi has not ratified the death sentence of Indian nurse Nimisha Priya, convicted for murder in 2018, as the case is handled by Houthi militia which detained her in Sana'a. India's external ministry intervention is sought.

Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee revealed that some of the 95 Indian fishermen detained in Bangladesh were tortured in custody, after they mistakenly entered Bangladeshi waters. She noted their injuries and ensured they received medical treatment, contrasting this with the humane treatment given to Bangladeshi fishermen in Bengal prisons.

In Gwalior, a junior female doctor was allegedly raped by her classmate, Dr Sanjay Kumar Iwane, after meeting him post-examination. The incident occurred at an abandoned part of an old boys' hostel. The survivor reported the assault to Kampu police, stating she was threatened with violence. Authorities have registered the case and initiated an investigation.

The entire fleet of 'Dhruv' advanced light helicopters in the Indian armed forces has been temporarily grounded for safety checks following a fatal crash. A thorough top-level investigation into the fleet's issues, including design and manufacturing defects and maintenance, is called for by military personnel and experts.

In Sangareddy's Eddumailaram village, 21 dogs died and 11 were critically injured after being thrown from a 40-ft bridge with their legs and mouths tied. An investigation is underway to find the culprits. Animal welfare groups demand stringent action against the perpetrators of this horrific cruelty.

A 30-year-old ophthalmologist reported being harassed by a 48-year-old patient after she refused his advances. He allegedly threatened and blackmailed her, leading to defamation that impacted her professional reputation. Police have registered an FIR under relevant sections and are investigating the case. The accused's whereabouts are currently unknown.

A CPI(M) leader’s outburst reveals tensions in the ruling front

US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan praised Indian NSA Ajit Doval for emphasizing technology in strengthening US-India ties. Sullivan highlighted their professional and personal rapport in advancing the partnership, particularly through the US-India Initiative on Critical and Emerging Technologies (iCET) amid geopolitical competition.

PM Modi hosted outgoing US NSA Jake Sullivan, highlighting the strides made in the India-US strategic partnership, especially in technology, defence, and AI. They acknowledged significant bilateral advancements over four years and discussed future cooperation, including missile export control policy updates. Modi appreciated President Biden's contributions and received a letter from him via Sullivan.

DMDK cadre court arrest at protests, led by party deputy general secretary B. Parthasarathi, held in front of the Chennai Collectorate and near Maduravoyal

India expressed solidarity with the Taliban regime, condemning Pakistani airstrikes that have targeted Afghan civilians, including women and children. Pakistan's airstrikes, claimed to be in retaliation against cross-border terrorist attacks, were accused of violating Afghanistan's sovereignty. The Taliban called these attacks a blatant violation of international principles, promising retaliation.