The Supreme Court on August 22, 2025, permitted individuals whose names were omitted from Bihar’s draft electoral rolls to submit online claims using either their Aadhaar card or any one of 11 documents recognized by the Election Commission of India . Justices Surya Kant and Joymalya Bagchi urged Bihar’s 12 recognized political parties to mobilize Booth Level Agents (BLAs) to assist affected voters, as only two objections had been filed so far by over 160,800 BLAs . The court set a submission deadline of September 1, 2025, and scheduled its next hearing for September 8 to review compliance. (The Indian EXPRESS)

The Supreme Court on Friday softened its earlier August 11 order on stray dogs, calling a complete removal “too harsh.” A bench led by Justices Vikram Nath, Sandeep Mehta, and NV Anjaria ruled that dogs sterilised and vaccinated must be returned to their original areas, except rabid or aggressive ones. The court directed civic bodies to create designated feeding zones but banned feeding on streets. Authorities must also set up helplines for complaints. The bench warned that individuals or NGOs obstructing dog-catching may be fined ₹25,000. The court stressed practical solutions over unrealistic mass relocation orders. (PC: HT)

The Supreme Court on Friday revised its order on stray dogs, asking NGOs to deposit Rs 2 lakh and individual dog lovers Rs 25,000 with the court registry to continue in the case. The money will be used for stray dog welfare, including shelters and feeding zones. The bench clarified the order does not apply to common citizens. The court also banned feeding stray dogs in public places, directing civic bodies to create designated feeding areas. Stray dogs can be released after sterilisation, vaccination, and deworming. Aggressive or rabid dogs must be quarantined. The order now covers all states. (PC: India Today)

The Supreme Court of India has ordered the Election Commission of India (ECI) to accept Aadhaar as one of the valid identity documents—alongside 11 others—for voters excluded during the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of Bihar’s electoral rolls . The court emphasized the need for a “voter-friendly” process, allowing applicants to submit claims online and physical forms by September 1 . It also expressed surprise at political parties’ inaction, directing 12 parties to actively assist affected voters, and demanded transparency in corrections. (PC: NDTV)

The Supreme Court of India has acknowledged that its earlier August 11 order prohibiting the release of vaccinated stray dogs in Delhi and NCR was “too harsh.” In a revised directive, the Court now allows treated dogs to be released back into the same area after sterilisation and immunisation. This marks a significant shift in judicial tone, balancing public safety with humane animal management. The modification follows widespread concern from civic bodies and animal welfare groups. The original order had sparked criticism for its rigidity. The updated stance reflects the Court’s recognition of practical and ethical considerations in managing urban stray dog populations across the National Capital Region.(PC: NDTV & Hindustan Times)

India’s top archaeologist BR Mani has revealed that gold coins called Nishka were used during the Harappan and Rig Vedic periods nearly 3,000 years before the Kushan dynasty. Once mistaken for ornamental beads, these perforated gold discs were found at sites like Mohenjodaro, Lothal, Rakhigarhi, and Mandi. Mani’s lecture at Delhi’s National Museum, attended by top scholars, highlighted their use as currency, trade assets, ritual offerings, and status symbols. Textual references in Rig Veda, Panini’s works, and Jataka tales support this claim. The discovery challenges long-held beliefs and reshapes our understanding of ancient Indian economy, metallurgy, and cultural sophistication. (PC: India Today)

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi praised the Supreme Court’s revised order on stray dogs, calling it a “compassionate approach” that balances public safety with animal welfare. The Court directed that stray dogs be vaccinated and sterilised, then released in the same area, while aggressive or rabid dogs must be sheltered. Feeding on public roads was prohibited, with municipal bodies instructed to create designated feeding zones. Gandhi, known for his advocacy of animal rights, welcomed the humane framework and urged civic bodies to implement it responsibly. His endorsement adds political weight to the ruling, which aims to reduce conflict between communities and stray animals through structured, ethical management. (PC: ANI)

A rare and stunning sight unfolded at Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple in Varanasi after the Shayan Aarti on August 21, 2025, when a pure white owl alighted atop the temple’s golden spire. The sighting—captured by Temple PRO Anand Shukla and shared by CEO Vishwa Bhushan Mishra—went viral, captivating devotees and spiritual onlookers . In Hindu tradition, the owl is regarded as the vahana (vehicle) of Goddess Lakshmi, symbolizing wealth, purity, and divine favor. Many worshippers interpreted the appearance as an auspicious omen, reinforcing their faith and optimism for prosperity and protection.

The Supreme Court of India has modified its earlier directive on stray dogs, emphasizing humane treatment while ensuring public safety. The Court ruled that stray dogs must be vaccinated and sterilised, then released in the same area they were picked up from. However, dogs exhibiting aggressive behavior or infected with rabies must be immunized and kept in shelters. Importantly, the Court prohibited feeding stray dogs on public roads, directing municipal bodies like the MCD to establish designated feeding zones. The original order on picking up stray dogs remains unchanged. This balanced approach aims to protect citizens while respecting animal welfare, marking a significant shift in urban stray dog management policy. (PC: The New York Times)

A serious security breach occurred at India’s Parliament complex early Friday, August 22, 2025, when an unknown individual scaled the boundary wall. Security quickly apprehended the intruder, who is now undergoing questioning while authorities launch a detailed investigation into the lapse. The incident has raised alarm over vulnerabilities in the security infrastructure of this highly guarded site, prompting scrutiny and review of existing protocols. (PC: PTI)