The Uttarakhand government has temporarily halted the proposed felling of around 3,000 trees for the Dehradun–Rishikesh highway expansion after widespread public protests and environmental concerns. Citizens, environmental activists, and local groups argued that the large-scale tree cutting would damage the region's fragile ecosystem and biodiversity. Responding to the growing opposition, the government paused the project to review its environmental impact and explore alternatives that could reduce ecological damage. The decision has been welcomed by conservationists as a positive step toward balancing infrastructure development with environmental protection, while discussions continue on the future of the highway project. (PC: The New Indian Express)

Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk has described the planned July 20 "Chalo Sansad" march as India's "second freedom movement," urging citizens to peacefully join the protest despite being under hospital detention in Delhi. In a message shared from Safdarjung Hospital, he called for "freedom from fear" and "freedom from injustice," emphasizing democratic rights and non-violent resistance. Wangchuk's appeal comes amid his prolonged hunger strike and growing public concern over his health. The movement has drawn support from students, civil society groups, and several political leaders, intensifying pressure on the government to engage in dialogue with protesters. (PC: Instagram)

Delhi Police have refused permission for the Cockroach Janta Party’s (CJP) proposed Parliament march on July 20, calling it an illegal gathering due to security concerns during the Monsoon Session of Parliament. Authorities said the march could disrupt law and order, affect traffic, and pose risks in the high-security Parliament area. Police warned that protesters attempting to proceed towards Parliament could be stopped and detained. Despite the restriction, CJP leaders have indicated they intend to continue their planned demonstration, keeping tensions high amid the ongoing protest movement and recent hunger strike developments. (PC: X)

At least 21 protesters have continued their indefinite hunger strike despite activist Sonam Wangchuk being shifted to Safdarjung Hospital after his health deteriorated. The protesters, including students and civil society members, remain at Delhi's Jantar Mantar, demanding accountability over alleged examination irregularities and reaffirming their commitment to the movement. Wangchuk's supporters have accused authorities of forcibly hospitalising him, while officials cited medical advice and court directions. Protest leaders said the agitation will continue until their demands are addressed, with solidarity growing through planned demonstrations and public participation across the country. (PC: PTI)

Social activist Anna Hazare has urged the Union government to hold talks with Sonam Wangchuk, saying, "Shouldn't test his limits. Say yes or no to his demands, but what is wrong in holding discussions?" Wangchuk's indefinite hunger strike at Delhi's Jantar Mantar entered Day 21 as he continued demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over the NEET paper leak case. Delhi Police shifted him to Safdarjung Hospital, citing a High Court order to monitor his health. Protesters alleged he was taken away forcibly, while police maintained the move was for medical treatment. (PC: HT)

Manipur activist Irom Sharmila has expressed support for Sonam Wangchuk's hunger strike, saying meaningful change can only come through sustained public participation. Speaking to Scroll, Sharmila, who fasted for 16 years demanding the repeal of the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act, said the responsibility to fight for change should not rest on one individual. She urged citizens, especially young people, to join Wangchuk's protest and build a united movement. Sharmila argued that governments respond only to large-scale, collective agitations and warned against expecting a single protester to carry the burden or become a martyr. (PC: Scroll)

Double Olympic medallist Manu Bhaker has voiced support for students protesting against alleged examination paper leaks, saying the issue is about education, safety and accountability, not politics. In a post on X, the 24-year-old said every child deserves equal opportunities and a fair chance to build their future. Bhaker urged people not to view the protests through a political lens, stressing that protecting students' dreams should be a national priority. Her remarks come amid ongoing demonstrations led by activist Sonam Wangchuk and the Cockroach Janta Party, demanding transparency and accountability over alleged paper leaks. (PC: HT)

Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk remains under treatment at Delhi's Safdarjung Hospital after completing 20 days without solid food during his hunger strike. Doctors said dehydration, low potassium levels and rising ketone levels could affect his kidney function. They urged immediate medical treatment. However, Wangchuk has refused intravenous fluids, oral rehydration solutions and medicines. Hospital officials said he is under close observation. Meanwhile, security has been tightened in Delhi ahead of a planned Parliament march. Congress leaders criticised Wangchuk's removal from Jantar Mantar. Doctors warned that "his kidney function may be at risk" if the hunger strike continues.

At least 8 people were killed and five others were injured after a fire and blast at a firecracker factory in Ahmedabad's Mahmudpura area on Saturday. The injured were taken to L.G. Hospital for treatment. Firefighters and rescue teams continued search operations at the site. Officials said the death toll could rise. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed grief over the incident, saying he was "extremely saddened" by the loss of lives. He announced an ex gratia of ₹2 lakh for the families of those killed and ₹50,000 for each injured person from the Prime Minister's National Relief Fund.

5 people died and 10 others were injured after a blast and fire at a firecracker factory in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, on Saturday. The factory was suspected to be operating illegally. Firefighters and police quickly reached the spot and rescued the injured. They were taken to nearby hospitals for treatment. Police have started an investigation to find the cause of the blast. They are also checking if the factory broke safety rules. Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel announced financial help for the victims' families. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed grief and announced compensation from the Prime Minister's National Relief Fund.