Security forces have launched an intensive search operation in Jammu and Kashmir's Shopian district following intelligence reports about the presence of militants linked to the Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT). The joint operation, involving the Army, Jammu and Kashmir Police, and paramilitary forces, has led to cordon-and-search efforts across suspected locations. Authorities are conducting thorough searches while maintaining heightened security to prevent militant movement or attacks. No exchange of fire or casualties had been reported at the time of the operation. Officials said the search would continue until the area is fully cleared and secured. (PC: The Hindu)

A Delhi court rejected the fresh bail pleas of Umar Khalid and Sharjeel Imam in the alleged larger conspiracy case linked to the 2020 North East Delhi riots. The trial court ruled that it was bound by the Supreme Court of India's January 5, 2026 order, which permitted fresh bail applications only after protected witnesses were examined or one year had elapsed, whichever occurred first. The defence cited a subsequent Supreme Court ruling in the Syed Iftikhar Andrabi v. NIA case, arguing that prolonged incarceration could justify bail. However, the trial court held it had no option but to follow the earlier binding directive. (PC: Emmanual Yogini)

Scientists have identified a banyan tree in Bihar’s Munger district as the oldest accurately dated banyan tree known so far, estimating its age at around 700 years through scientific analysis. The discovery represents a significant breakthrough in dating tropical trees, a long-standing challenge because of their complex growth patterns and the absence of clear annual growth rings. Researchers believe the finding could reshape methods for studying ancient tropical trees while strengthening conservation efforts for ecologically and culturally significant heritage sites across South Asia and beyond. The landmark study provides a reliable scientific benchmark for understanding the longevity of banyan trees and highlights the importance of preserving centuries-old natural landmarks for future generations. (PC: X)

A purported Snapchat conversation involving murder accused Siya Goyal has surfaced during the investigation into the death of her fiancé, Ketan Agarwal, adding a new twist to the case. According to police, Siya allegedly asked a friend for an Aadhaar card copy to book flight tickets for a “wedding that would never happen,” raising suspicions that the booking was intended to make the wedding preparations appear genuine. Investigators are examining whether the chat was part of a planned cover-up. A court has sent Siya Goyal and co-accused Chetan Chaudhary to 14 days of judicial custody. (PC: NDTV)

The Gauhati High Court upheld a tribunal's decision declaring a man a foreigner despite his submission of 15 documents, including a PAN card, voter ID and Aadhaar. The court ruled that these documents establish identity or residence but do not conclusively prove Indian citizenship. It observed that citizenship must be established through legally admissible evidence under the relevant laws. The judgment reinforces that identity documents alone are insufficient to determine nationality in disputed citizenship cases and upholds the Foreigners Tribunal's findings. (PC: X)

The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has designated 23 Pakistan-based individuals as terrorists under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), intensifying India's crackdown on cross-border terrorism. The newly listed individuals are accused of involvement in terrorist activities, recruitment, financing, planning attacks, and supporting militant organisations targeting India. The notification aims to strengthen legal action against operatives based outside the country and disrupt networks linked to terrorism. The move also enables authorities to freeze assets, pursue investigations, and enhance international cooperation against terror financing. The government said the designations reflect its continued commitment to safeguarding national security and combating cross-border extremist threats. (PC: The Hindu)

The Shri Badrinath-Kedarnath Temple Committee (BKTC) has launched an inquiry into allegations of misappropriation of donations and offerings at Badrinath Dham following claims circulating on social media. BKTC Chairman Hemant Dwivedi said show-cause notices have been issued to employees involved in donation counting, and an inquiry committee has been formed to examine CCTV footage, records, and staff statements. Dwivedi also clarified that a person described online as his “personal secretary” is a regular committee employee. Authorities have assured that strict legal and departmental action will be taken if any financial irregularities are confirmed, while urging the public not to spread unverified information. (PC: India Today)

India's food safety regulator, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), has issued notices to Red Bull, PepsiCo and several other beverage companies over alleged violations in the labelling and marketing of energy drinks. The regulator is scrutinising claims, ingredient disclosures and compliance with food safety regulations to ensure consumers are not misled. Companies have been asked to clarify their labelling practices and respond to the notices. The move is part of FSSAI's broader crackdown on misleading food and beverage claims, reinforcing stricter regulatory oversight and consumer protection in India's rapidly expanding energy drink market. (PC: PTI)

India has reiterated that the Indus Waters Treaty will remain in abeyance until Pakistan takes credible and irreversible steps to end support for cross-border terrorism. Responding to Pakistan's criticism, the Ministry of External Affairs said New Delhi's position remains unchanged and stressed that the treaty was signed in good faith but has been undermined by decades of terrorism and hostile actions. The statement comes amid heightened diplomatic tensions and follows recent international discussions on combating terrorism. Pakistan has opposed India's stance, while the decades-old water-sharing agreement continues to be a major point of contention between the two neighbours. 

India recorded one of its driest Junes since 1901, with rainfall nearly 40% below normal, prompting Union Home Minister Amit Shah to review the country's drought preparedness. Chairing a high-level meeting, Shah directed the Agriculture, Water Resources and Power ministries to coordinate with states and remain vigilant as the India Meteorological Department forecasts below-normal rainfall in July. He stressed the need to advise farmers on suitable crops, monitor reservoir levels and ensure uninterrupted electricity supply. The Centre said adequate food grain stocks are available and is closely monitoring the impact of weak monsoon conditions linked to El Niño. (PC: X)