India enjoyed another successful day at the 2026 Commonwealth Games as Preeti and Jaismine Lamboria clinched gold medals in their respective boxing categories with dominant performances. Their victories strengthened India's boxing campaign and added valuable gold medals to the country's tally. Meanwhile, national record holder S. Chitravel qualified for the men's triple jump final, keeping India's athletics medal hopes alive. Indian athletes also delivered competitive performances across multiple disciplines, contributing to the nation's strong overall campaign. The latest results further boosted India's position in the medal standings as the Games entered a crucial stage. (PC: India Today)

Political commentator Tehseen Poonawalla alleged that Delhi Police placed him under house arrest to prevent him from participating in a protest against the proposed E20 fuel policy. In a social media post, he claimed police personnel surrounded his residence without providing a written order, saying he was treated "almost as if I am a terrorist." Poonawalla criticized the action as an attack on democratic rights and freedom of expression. Authorities had not immediately issued a detailed response to his allegations. The incident has sparked debate over the balance between law enforcement measures and citizens' right to protest peacefully.

FIFA has abandoned its controversial proposal to sell minority stakes in the commercial rights of future FIFA World Cups after facing strong opposition from football associations, fans, governance experts, and commercial partners. Critics argued the plan risked prioritizing investor profits over the sport's long-term interests and raised concerns about transparency and control of football's biggest tournament. Following the widespread backlash, FIFA decided not to proceed with the investment strategy. The decision is seen as a significant victory for critics who urged the governing body to protect the integrity, independence, and future management of the World Cup.

India's star javelin thrower Neeraj Chopra admitted he felt "scared" before every attempt despite winning the silver medal at the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow. Battling cold weather and intense pressure, Chopra managed a season-best throw of 85.83 metres but finished behind Sri Lanka's Rumesh Pathirage. Reflecting on the event, Chopra said the challenging conditions tested his confidence throughout the competition. He also expressed happiness over sharing the podium with fellow Indian Yashvir Singh, who clinched bronze, making it a memorable double-podium finish for India in the men's javelin throw event. (PC: NDTV)

The flood situation in Assam has improved gradually, but the humanitarian crisis continues. The death toll has risen to 80 after two more fatalities were reported, while nearly 1.92 lakh people across five districts remain affected. Although water levels have receded in several areas, thousands of residents are still living in relief camps and facing shortages of essential supplies. Rescue, relief, and rehabilitation efforts are ongoing, with government agencies working to restore normalcy. Authorities remain on alert as the India Meteorological Department has forecast more rainfall, raising concerns about fresh flooding and slowing recovery in the affected regions. (PC: X)

The Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) has criticised the Zero FIR registered against Ruchika Singh over her alleged abusive remarks against Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the Jantar Mantar protest. CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke questioned the legal basis of the case, arguing that using abusive language is not, by itself, a criminal offence under Indian law. He also referred to past instances of political leaders using similar language, alleging selective action by authorities. The FIR has triggered a wider debate over freedom of expression, equal application of the law, and the limits of criminal action in cases involving offensive political speech. (PC: ANI)

A 15-year-old girl, Ruchika Singh, who was accused of using abusive language against Prime Minister Narendra Modi during a protest at Delhi's Jantar Mantar, released a public apology video expressing remorse. With folded hands, she said she was ashamed of her actions, apologised to the nation, and sought forgiveness, claiming she had been influenced by others. The controversy followed the registration of a Zero FIR over the incident. Responding through a video message, Prime Minister Modi said abuse never solves problems and described the students as "misguided children," urging society to guide them instead of seeking punishment. (PC: India Today)

Hyderabad Police have registered a case against the head of Meta India following a complaint by the BJP over allegedly objectionable social media posts about Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Facebook and Instagram. The complaint accused Meta of failing to remove or act against content considered defamatory and inflammatory. Police have initiated an investigation under relevant provisions of the law and will examine Meta's role in content moderation and platform responsibility. The case has reignited debate over social media accountability, intermediary liability, and the balance between free speech and regulation in India. (PC: X)

India's boxing team delivered a flawless performance at the 2026 Commonwealth Games, with all 10 Indian boxers securing places in their respective semifinal bouts, guaranteeing at least bronze medals. The unbeaten run has raised hopes of a historic clean sweep, with the contingent now targeting 10 gold medals. Coaches praised the boxers' discipline, tactical execution, and mental resilience throughout the competition. The remarkable achievement highlights India's growing strength in international boxing and reinforces its status as one of the sport's dominant nations at the Commonwealth Games, as the focus now shifts to converting semifinal appearances into gold-medal victories. (PC: NDTV)

The Centre has said petrol prices in Delhi could have reached ₹125 per litre if India had not expanded ethanol blending with petrol. According to the government, the ethanol programme has reduced India's dependence on imported crude oil, saved billions in foreign exchange, supported sugarcane farmers, and helped stabilize fuel prices despite global oil market volatility. Officials also highlighted environmental benefits, including lower carbon emissions from transport. The statement was made while defending the success of the National Biofuel Policy and India's ethanol blending initiative, which has become a key part of the country's energy security and clean fuel strategy.