Investigators probing the murder of Pune businessman Ketan Agarwal say a crucial 640-minute period during which the accused allegedly kept their mobile phones offline became a key breakthrough in the case. Police allege that fiancée Siya Goyal and her boyfriend Chetan Chaudhary switched off their phones while executing the alleged murder plan at Lohagad Fort, hoping to avoid digital tracking. However, investigators reconstructed their movements using CCTV footage, witness statements, and other forensic evidence. Authorities believe the prolonged communication blackout, instead of concealing the crime, drew suspicion and ultimately strengthened the case against the accused. (PC: PTI)

The investigation into the death of Pune businessman Ketan Agarwal at Lohagad Fort has taken a dramatic turn, with the mother of accused Siya Goyal stating that her daughter should face the harshest punishment if found guilty. According to police, Siya Goyal and her alleged lover, Chetan Chaudhary, conspired to kill Ketan by pushing him into a gorge during a trek on June 18. Investigators claim the pair had planned the murder in advance and had even made earlier unsuccessful attempts. Evidence including CCTV footage, call records, and witness accounts reportedly helped uncover the alleged conspiracy. Both accused are currently in police custody as the probe continues. 

The Centre has restored non-domestic packed LPG supplies to pre-crisis levels and withdrawn all sectoral restrictions after improvement in fuel availability following the easing of disruptions linked to the US-Israeli conflict with Iran. The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas said Oil Marketing Companies will resume normal supply of commercial LPG across the country. Restrictions on bulk LPG have also been relaxed, allowing commercial and industrial consumers to receive up to 50% of their pre-crisis consumption levels. During the crisis, triggered by Iran’s closure of the Strait of Hormuz, the government imposed controls under the Essential Commodities Act. States and Union Territories have been directed to ensure smooth implementation of the revised system. (PC: X)

Senior advocate Harish Salve has supported the Ministry of External Affairs’ clarification that a passport is a travel document and not conclusive proof of Indian citizenship, describing the government’s position as legally correct. Speaking amid the ongoing debate, Salve said citizenship is determined by law and not by possession of a passport. Referring to Section 20 of the Passports Act, 1967, he noted that passports can be issued in specific circumstances even to non-citizens, which does not automatically confer citizenship. He stressed that citizenship is governed by legal provisions and that passports remain valid proof for practical purposes unless legally challenged. He also dismissed concerns about international credibility. (PC: X)

The Indian government has announced the first major passport fee revision in nearly 14 years, with the new rates taking effect from July 1, 2026. A fresh or reissued 36-page passport for adults will now cost Rs 2,500 under the normal scheme and Rs 5,000 under Tatkaal, up from Rs 1,500 and Rs 3,500 respectively. The fee for a 60-page passport has risen to Rs 3,500 and Rs 6,000. Charges for replacing lost or damaged passports have also increased significantly across categories. The revised structure, notified through the Passports (Amendment) Rules, 2026, applies to all applications submitted on or after July 1 nationwide. (PC: Pinterest)

The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust has filed an FIR in connection with the alleged theft and misappropriation of donations received at the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya. The action follows findings from an ongoing Special Investigation Team (SIT) probe into suspected financial irregularities involving temple offerings and donation funds. Investigators are examining allegations of embezzlement, missing cash, and possible lapses in financial oversight. The case has sparked political debate and renewed calls for greater transparency in the management of religious donations. Authorities have assured devotees that a thorough investigation is underway and that appropriate action will be taken against those found responsible. (PC: AP)

The Government of India has announced a revised passport fee structure that will come into effect on July 1, 2026. Under the new rates, a fresh ordinary passport application will cost ₹2,500, while applicants seeking expedited Tatkaal service will have to pay ₹5,000. The revised fees are part of an update to passport service charges and are expected to apply across Passport Seva Kendras nationwide. Officials said the changes aim to streamline service delivery and operational costs. Citizens planning to apply for new passports, renewals, or urgent travel documents are advised to check the updated fee schedule before submitting applications. 

India will resume issuing tourist visas to Bangladeshi nationals from June 28, marking a significant step toward normalising relations between the two neighbouring countries. The announcement was made in Dhaka by newly appointed Indian High Commissioner Dinesh Trivedi, who recently assumed office and was also granted Cabinet-rank status for ceremonial protocol. Tourist visa applications will be accepted through multiple visa centres across Bangladesh, while urgent medical visas will continue on humanitarian grounds. The decision follows months of limited visa operations and is expected to boost tourism, family visits, medical travel, and people-to-people exchanges, further strengthening India-Bangladesh diplomatic and cultural ties. (PC: ANI)

Seven endangered golden langurs rescued from a wildlife trafficking network have been released into Assam’s Sikhna Jwhwlao National Park after receiving veterinary care and rehabilitation. The primates were among eight langurs recovered during a joint operation by the Assam Police Special Task Force and local authorities in Chirang district. One langur died after the rescue, while the remaining seven were treated and prepared for release. Nine suspects, including a Bangladeshi national, were arrested in connection with the trafficking case. Officials believe the animals were illegally captured from forest areas in western Assam. The successful release marks a significant step in protecting the endangered species and combating wildlife trafficking. (PC: The Hindu)

Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan said the NEET 2026 re-exam was conducted successfully after the government corrected earlier lapses. The original exam was cancelled following allegations of a paper leak. Pradhan admitted mistakes were made and said steps were taken to improve the system. He urged students and parents to remain positive and trust the examination process. More than 20 lakh candidates appeared for the re-exam at over 5,400 centres across India and abroad. The NTA used biometric verification, CCTV cameras, jammers and strict security measures. The government also promised strong action against paper leak networks. (PC: PTI)