The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, convened a meeting at Parliament on Friday as both Houses continued to witness repeated disruptions over various issues. In the Lok Sabha, proceedings resumed at noon but were marked by loud protests from Opposition members demanding the resignation of Union Home Minister Amit Shah. Amid the commotion, the House passed the Registration of Births and Deaths (Amendment) Bill, which proposes changes to the Registration of Births and Deaths Act, 1969.
Following the Bill's passage, Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju criticized the Opposition, saying the legislative schedule had been finalized with the consent of all parties through the Business Advisory Committee (BAC). He emphasized that the government had hoped for broad participation during the discussion.
"An important Bill has been passed today, and we wanted every member to take part in the debate. The time allotted for it was decided in the Business Advisory Committee," Rijiju said. He also urged Opposition members not to later claim that the legislation was approved without adequate discussion. With protests continuing in the House, the Lok Sabha was adjourned for the day and is scheduled to reconvene at 11 a.m. on August 3.
The Rajya Sabha also witnessed repeated interruptions as Opposition MPs raised multiple issues, including alleged police action during the July 20 student protests linked to the NEET examination. Amid the ongoing uproar, the Chair adjourned the Upper House for the day. Its proceedings will resume on Monday at 11 a.m.
Disclaimer: This image is taken from ANI.
As political activity gathers pace ahead of the next Uttar Pradesh Assembly election, the debate over social justice has once again moved to the centre of the state's political discourse. However, unlike previous elections that largely focused on caste-based mobilization and reservation policies, political parties are now attempting to strike a delicate balance between expanding support among backward communities while retaining the confidence of upper-caste voters. Uttar Pradesh, India's most politically significant state with 80 Lok Sabha seats, has long been shaped by caste equations. Every election in the state is influenced by alliances built across communities, making social engineering a key component of campaign strategy.
The ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), which has enjoyed strong backing from upper-caste communities alongside significant support from non-Yadav Other Backward Classes (OBCs) and sections of Dalits, faces the challenge of preserving this broad social coalition. Political observers say the party will seek to reassure its traditional support base while continuing outreach to other social groups through welfare schemes and development initiatives.
At the same time, opposition parties are attempting to widen their own electoral base. The Samajwadi Party, traditionally associated with Yadav and Muslim voters, has increasingly tried to attract non-Yadav OBCs, Dalits and even sections of upper-caste voters by broadening its messaging around social justice, employment and governance.
The Congress, meanwhile, has also sought to revive its presence in the state by emphasizing constitutional values, inclusive development and social equity, although rebuilding its organizational strength remains an uphill task. Political analysts note that the meaning of social justice itself is evolving. While reservation and political representation remain important issues, younger voters are increasingly linking social justice with employment opportunities, quality education, transparent recruitment processes and access to government services. Concerns over competitive examinations, paper leaks and public sector recruitment have become part of the larger political conversation.
The competition for Dalit and OBC votes also remains intense. All major parties have stepped up organizational efforts and grassroots outreach as they prepare for the next electoral battle, recognizing that no single community is large enough to guarantee victory in Uttar Pradesh's complex political landscape.
Election strategists believe candidate selection, regional caste demographics, local alliances and booth-level organization will continue to play a decisive role alongside broader political narratives. Even relatively small shifts in voting patterns among key communities can significantly alter the outcome in closely contested constituencies.
With campaigning expected to intensify in the coming months, Uttar Pradesh is once again emerging as the country's most closely watched political battleground. The evolving debate around social justice, combined with changing voter priorities and caste equations, is likely to shape not only the state's electoral outcome but also influence the broader national political landscape.
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Fresh violence in Pakistan-administered Kashmir has intensified political tensions ahead of the region's legislative elections, with deadly clashes between security forces and protesters triggering renewed debate over governance, electoral representation, and civil rights in the territory. The unrest has drawn international attention as conflicting claims over casualties and the use of force continue to emerge.
The latest clashes erupted in Rawalakot after supporters of the banned Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) attempted to march toward Muzaffarabad despite heavy security restrictions. Authorities said the demonstrations turned violent, while protest groups accused security personnel of using excessive force against civilians. Official and unofficial casualty figures differ, with independent verification remaining difficult because of restrictions on access and communications in parts of the region.
The protests stem from long-standing political grievances rather than a single incident. A major point of contention is the reservation of 12 seats in the regional legislative assembly for refugees from Jammu and Kashmir who now reside elsewhere in Pakistan. Protesters argue that the arrangement dilutes the political influence of residents living in the region and gives Islamabad greater control over the local political process.
The JAAC, which has been leading the movement, has demanded changes to the electoral framework, greater political autonomy, governance reforms, and the release of detained activists. Pakistan banned the group under anti-terrorism laws earlier this year, alleging that elements within the organisation were involved in violent activities. JAAC leaders have rejected those allegations and maintain that their movement is aimed at securing democratic rights and political reforms.
The violence has unfolded against the backdrop of phased elections in Pakistan-administered Kashmir. Political analysts say the unrest has overshadowed the electoral process, with opposition parties raising concerns about the overall political environment. Some parties have questioned the fairness of the elections, while authorities insist that voting is being conducted according to law under enhanced security arrangements.
International human rights organisations have expressed concern over reports of civilian deaths, communication blackouts, and restrictions on media access. Calls have been made for an independent investigation into the violence to establish the circumstances surrounding the clashes and ensure accountability. Pakistani authorities have denied allegations of targeting peaceful protesters and have blamed armed elements for escalating the situation. The latest unrest is part of a broader pattern of protests witnessed in Pakistan-administered Kashmir over the past year. Demonstrations have focused on issues including political representation, governance, inflation, public services, and demands for greater local decision-making. Observers say these recurring protests indicate deeper structural challenges that extend beyond the current election cycle.
With polling continuing under tight security, the situation in Rawalakot remains tense. Whether the authorities can restore stability through dialogue or further security measures is likely to shape the political landscape in Pakistan-administered Kashmir in the coming weeks. Meanwhile, the violence has once again placed the region under international scrutiny, highlighting unresolved questions surrounding governance, representation, and the rights of local residents.
Disclaimer: This image is taken from NDTV.
The United States' efforts to pressure Iran through military action, economic sanctions, and diplomatic isolation have become increasingly complicated, with experts suggesting that many of Washington's objectives remain out of reach. Instead of producing a quick strategic victory, the prolonged confrontation has exposed the limitations of military force and intensified concerns about regional stability.
When the US increased pressure on Tehran, officials hoped that a combination of targeted strikes and sanctions would weaken Iran's military capabilities and compel its leadership to negotiate from a position of weakness. However, recent developments indicate that the conflict has become far more difficult to manage than initially anticipated.
Despite repeated military operations, Iran has continued to demonstrate its ability to respond through missile capabilities and its network of regional allies. While American strikes have reportedly damaged parts of Iran's military infrastructure, analysts say Tehran has retained enough capacity to prolong the confrontation, preventing Washington from achieving a decisive outcome.
The lack of a clear military breakthrough has also complicated diplomatic efforts. Several attempts to revive negotiations have produced little progress, as both countries remain deeply distrustful of each other's intentions. Every fresh round of hostilities has further narrowed the space for meaningful dialogue, making a negotiated settlement increasingly difficult.
The conflict has also created economic uncertainty well beyond the Middle East. Investors and governments continue to monitor developments around the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world's most critical energy corridors. Any disruption to shipping through the narrow waterway has the potential to affect global oil supplies, fuel prices, and international trade. Although major disruptions have so far been avoided, markets remain sensitive to the possibility of further escalation.
At home, the conflict has become a growing political issue for the United States. Questions are being raised over the financial cost of prolonged military engagement, the long-term strategic goals of the campaign, and the legal authority for continued operations. The debate has intensified in Washington as lawmakers seek greater clarity on the administration's plans and the prospects for ending the confrontation.
Iran continues to face significant internal economic challenges, including high inflation, unemployment, and the impact of years of international sanctions. However, these domestic pressures have not translated into the political concessions that many policymakers in Washington had expected. Instead, Iranian leaders have largely maintained their position, arguing that continued resistance is essential despite mounting economic difficulties.
Security experts believe the conflict demonstrates the complexity of modern geopolitical crises, where military superiority alone is often insufficient to achieve political objectives. They argue that sanctions can weaken an economy but may not necessarily change strategic decision-making, while prolonged conflicts tend to create unintended consequences that affect both regional and global stability.
For now, there is little indication that either side is prepared to significantly alter its approach. With military tensions persisting and diplomatic channels making only limited progress, the US-Iran confrontation appears set to remain one of the most significant geopolitical flashpoints in the Middle East. Analysts warn that unless both sides return to sustained negotiations, the conflict could continue to generate economic uncertainty, regional instability, and heightened security risks for the international community.
Disclaimer: This image is taken from NDTV.
Pellet guns have returned to the spotlight after they were reportedly used during the July 20 student protest at Delhi's Jantar Mantar over the alleged NEET-UG paper leak. A petition before the Supreme Court has sought a complete ban on their use for crowd control. Hearing the plea, a Bench led by Chief Justice of India Surya Kant observed that pellet guns cannot be prohibited outright as long as existing government guidelines permit their use in exceptional circumstances. The court also directed the Centre to preserve the Rapid Action Force's ammunition records for judicial review. Pellet guns are 12-bore pump-action shotguns that fire cartridges containing hundreds of tiny metal pellets. Though classified as "less-lethal" weapons, they can cause serious injuries, including permanent damage to the eyes and internal organs. The Centre introduced pellet guns in 2010 during unrest in Jammu and Kashmir. Following criticism over injuries, an expert committee in 2016 recommended that they be used only in the "rarest of rare" situations and only after alternatives such as PAVA shells, tear smoke, stun grenades, and rubber or plastic bullets have failed. Current Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) require security forces to use force in a graded manner, with the primary aim of minimizing harm to both civilians and personnel. The use of pellet guns remains controversial due to past incidents in which civilians suffered severe and sometimes permanent injuries.
Disclaimer: This image is taken from PTI.
In this edition of Made in SG, Melanie Oliveiro spotlights W Optics, a Singapore-based vision care specialist and optical retail chain. W Optics CEO Jonathan Wong shares the company's journey, explaining how his father, Francis Wong, founded the business and eventually entrusted him with leading its next phase of growth. Joining the discussion is senior optometrist and manager Oh Shwu Ji, who offers insights into common eye health concerns while highlighting the latest trends in eyewear design and prescription glasses.
Disclaimer: This podcast is taken from CNA.
Rescue teams in Japan have continued their search operations overnight as they race to find survivors following a powerful earthquake that struck Kyushu Island. Several people remain unaccounted for after the 7.1-magnitude quake caused buildings to collapse, with many feared trapped beneath the debris of a shopping centre. CNA Senior Correspondent Michiyo Ishida joins Andrea Heng and Hairianto Diman to provide the latest updates on the rescue efforts and situation on the ground.
Disclaimer: This podcast is taken from CNA.
Andy Burnham is set to welcome Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy as his first international guest, underscoring the UK's continued commitment to Ukraine. As Burnham unveils his agenda to address long-standing issues such as social care, Pippa Crerar and Jessica Elgot examine whether his proposals can deliver meaningful change.
Disclaimer: This podcast is taken from The Guardian.
India's education minister has stepped down, and the youth-led Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) is celebrating the development as a significant win. What started as a humorous online campaign has rapidly transformed into one of the country's most closely watched youth-driven movements. By tapping into widespread concerns over unemployment, limited opportunities, and the lack of political representation, the movement has captured national attention. In this discussion, Genevieve Woo speaks with correspondent Neha Poonia about how a campaign centred on the unlikely symbol of a cockroach managed to influence India's political conversation and what it says about a generation determined to make its voice heard despite the odds.
Disclaimer: This podcast is taken from CNA.
