Indian equity markets continued their upward momentum for the fifth consecutive session on June 18, with the Sensex and Nifty gaining on optimism surrounding a potential US-Iran peace agreement and declining global crude oil prices. Lower energy costs improved investor confidence and supported gains across several sectors, particularly banking and financial stocks. Analysts said easing geopolitical tensions and expectations of stable inflation have strengthened market sentiment. The rally also received support from positive global cues, although concerns over future US interest-rate decisions continued to weigh on information technology shares. Overall, Indian markets maintained a strong bullish trend. (PC: Rediff)

The Central Government told the Delhi High Court that Telegram has evolved into a “new dark web,” arguing that its anonymity and encryption make it difficult to trace criminal activities. The remarks came as the Centre defended its temporary ban on the messaging platform ahead of the NEET-UG 2026 re-examination. Authorities claimed organised cheating networks used Telegram to spread fake papers and defraud students, necessitating stricter action. Telegram has challenged the restrictions in court, while the government insists the measures are aimed at safeguarding examination integrity and protecting millions of candidates. (PC: The Times of India)

India's transition to clean energy could reduce reliance on imported fossil fuels but may create new strategic risks, according to a report by the Council on Energy, Environment and Water. The report said India has crude oil reserves equal to only 9-10 days of net imports, much lower than countries like Japan and South Korea. It also highlighted dependence on imported LNG and coking coal. While renewable energy can improve energy security, it could increase dependence on critical minerals, technology and industrial inputs. The report urged India to strengthen domestic manufacturing, diversify supply chains and build resilient green energy systems.

The Delhi High Court on Wednesday declined to grant interim relief to Telegram against the Centre's temporary ban on the messaging platform. The government blocked Telegram until 22 June, citing concerns that leaked NEET-UG exam papers were being shared through the app. The Centre said it had repeatedly warned Telegram about misuse of its platform but received no effective response. Telegram argued that the ban harms millions of users and its business operations. The court has sought the government's reply and will hear the case again on 18 June. The NEET-UG re-examination is scheduled for 21 June.

A suspected militant linked to the banned United Kuki National Army (UKNA) was killed during a gunfight with security forces in Manipur's Churachandpur district. Officials said the encounter took place during a joint operation by the Army and Assam Rifles. An AK-47 rifle, ammunition and explosives were recovered from the site. Security forces reported no casualties. However, local village authorities and Kuki MLA Letzamang Haokip alleged that the deceased, Lenminsang Haokip, was an innocent villager and demanded an impartial investigation. Additional security personnel have been deployed, and search operations are continuing in the area.

The Indian government has suspended access to the Telegram messaging app nationwide until June 22, 2026, citing concerns over its alleged misuse in leaking examination material ahead of the NEET-UG re-test scheduled for June 21. The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology acted following recommendations from the National Testing Agency to curb organized exam fraud. Some Telegram features may remain restricted until June 30. The move has sparked debate over digital freedoms, with Telegram challenging the order in court and founder Pavel Durov criticizing the ban as affecting millions of legitimate users. (PC: X)

Construction of Bangladesh’s proposed 81-foot Lord Ram statue, set to be the country’s tallest, has been suspended after threats from radical Islamist groups. The project, located in Palashbari, Gaibandha district, was reportedly 80% complete when work was halted to maintain law and order. The decision followed online campaigns and public calls by Islamist preachers demanding the statue’s demolition. The move has triggered protests by Hindu groups and students, who say it raises concerns about religious freedom and minority rights. The controversy has intensified scrutiny of the government’s commitment to protecting Bangladesh’s religious minorities. (PC: India Today)

India's temporary ban on Telegram ahead of the NEET-UG re-examination has sparked debate after many users reported that the messaging platform continued to function hours after the order was issued. The government imposed the restriction to curb exam-related fraud and misinformation, but Telegram's continued accessibility has raised doubts about India's ability to effectively enforce app-level blocks. Experts point to Telegram's built-in anti-censorship mechanisms and the complexity of internet infrastructure as reasons for the partial effectiveness. The episode has reignited discussions on digital governance, censorship, and the technical challenges of restricting online platforms. (PC: India Today)

A Russian warship fired warning shots near a UK-registered yacht in the English Channel on Tuesday. The incident happened between the Isle of Wight and Normandy. The yacht, carrying a couple in their 60s, reportedly drifted close to the Russian frigate Admiral Grigorovich in foggy weather. Russia said its crew fired shots into the water after failed attempts to contact the yacht. No one was injured and the yacht was not damaged. A British patrol vessel later checked on the crew. The UK Defence Ministry is investigating the incident, which comes amid rising tensions with Russia. (PC: Ministry of Defence)

The Supreme Court has stepped in to help an 80-year-old woman and her visually impaired son living in poverty in Odisha’s Subarnapur district. Acting on media reports, the court directed the Odisha government to provide all social security benefits and basic facilities. The court said the pair must be able to live with dignity. Officials informed the court that pensions, free rice and a house had been provided. However, the court ordered an independent verification of these claims. It also asked local authorities to check on their health and welfare. The matter will be reviewed again on July 13.