Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) founder Abhijeet Dipke was arrested by Delhi Police on October 16, 2026, ahead of a planned ‘Lehra Do Tiranga’ march at Connaught Place demanding Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar’s resignation. CJP alleged that authorities deliberately delayed access to Dipke and information about his whereabouts. Police initiated proceedings under Sections 126 and 170 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, with Dipke scheduled to appear before a Special Executive Magistrate. AISA president Neha Bora, also detained before the protest, was released. Demonstrators continue opposing alleged irregularities in voter-list revisions under the Special Intensive Revision (SIR).

The Supreme Court of India has ruled that internet access is a fundamental right for children, cautioning against blanket bans imposed in the name of online safety. The court stated that children should not have to choose between their freedom and protection from digital risks. The ruling came while examining measures to detect and remove child sexual exploitation and abuse material online. The bench emphasised stronger safeguards, including parental controls, child-friendly settings and stricter action against harmful content. It also called for appropriate regulations and greater awareness to ensure children can access the internet safely. 

The Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK), led by M.K. Stalin, has demanded the removal of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar and an inquiry into his conduct. At a parliamentary party meeting in Chennai on October 17, 2026, the party passed resolutions opposing the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, alleging that eligible voters risk being excluded. The DMK also extended support to student-led protests and called for replacing electronic voting machines (EVMs) with paper ballots. The party plans to petition President Droupadi Murmu, seeking electoral reforms and the complete cancellation of the SIR exercise. (PC: The Hindu)

Russian presidential envoy Kirill Dmitriev has praised US President Donald Trump’s decision to waive certain new sanctions and tariffs targeting Russia, calling it a “truly historic moment.” On October 16, Trump signed an executive order suspending measures under the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026, citing US national interests. The legislation aimed to increase economic pressure on Moscow over its war in Ukraine and potentially penalise countries purchasing Russian energy. Dmitriev argued that the measures could have harmed the US economy and global markets. The decision has raised concerns among Ukraine’s European allies. (PC: Reuters)

Environmental activist Surendra Singh Choudhary, popularly known as Bittu Tabahi, faced another setback after installing two dustbins along the Ajnar River in Madhya Pradesh’s Rajgarh district. The 20-year-old had placed them to encourage responsible waste disposal after repeatedly cleaning the polluted river. However, when he returned, one dustbin was missing, leaving him disappointed. Despite months of cleanup efforts, plastic bags and other rubbish have begun accumulating along the riverbanks again. The incident sparked social media criticism, with users demanding fines for littering, police intervention and better security to protect public facilities. (PC: X)

Actress Kajol has highlighted the faith, family traditions and community spirit behind the Mukherjee family’s Durga Puja celebrations in Mumbai, marking their 80th anniversary in 2026. Established in 1948 by filmmaker Sashadhar Mukherjee, his wife Satirani and others, the North Bombay Sarbojanin Durga Puja has grown into a major cultural gathering. Kajol told NDTV that devotion to Maa Durga, rather than celebrity status, remains its central purpose. The celebration attracts over five lakh visitors annually, featuring an eco-friendly idol, cultural festivities and traditional Bengali food, creating a “mini Kolkata” atmosphere in Mumbai’s Juhu neighbourhood. 

US President Donald Trump has urged Saudi Arabia to accept Israel’s offer of assistance against Yemen’s Houthi rebels amid escalating regional hostilities. Speaking to reporters at the White House on October 16, Trump described Israel’s support as “very helpful” and expressed confidence that Riyadh would welcome the assistance. He also suggested that Saudi Arabia joining the Abraham Accords, which promote normalisation between Israel and Arab countries, could be more achievable than ever. However, Saudi Arabia has maintained that normalising relations with Israel requires a clear pathway towards Palestinian statehood. The developments could significantly influence Middle Eastern security and diplomacy. (PC: Reuters)

At least eight people were killed and 15 injured after a minibus carrying around 23 passengers plunged into a 15-foot-deep drain on the Delhi–Mumbai Expressway in Rajasthan’s Kota district on October 17, 2026. The accident occurred near pole number 384 under Simliya police station limits at approximately 6 am. The passengers, mostly from Madhya Pradesh, were travelling to Rajasthan’s Khatu Shyamji temple for a pilgrimage. Authorities suspect driver fatigue may have caused the vehicle to veer off the road. Rescue teams used cranes to retrieve the damaged vehicle, while the injured were taken to hospitals in Kota. (PC: PTI)

India has rejected a report by UN Special Rapporteur Gina Romero concerning alleged retaliation and stigmatisation faced by young Indians discussing mental health and gender justice. Speaking at the 81st session of the UN General Assembly’s Third Committee, Indian diplomat Anuj Swarup criticised the report for relying on anonymous and unverified submissions. He defended constitutional protections for freedom of expression, peaceful assembly and association under Article 19. Swarup also cited youth-led political movements and government engagement with young people as evidence of civic participation. India urged Romero to ensure greater accuracy, fairness and verification in future reports. (PC: Screengrab)

US President Donald Trump has waived key sanctions and tariffs targeting Russia and countries purchasing Russian oil and gas, just one day before the measures were due to take effect on October 18, 2026. The decision offers temporary relief to India and China, major importers of Russian energy, from potential US tariffs of up to 100% on their exports. Trump justified the waiver by citing American national interests amid concerns over rising energy prices. The measures were part of the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026. However, Washington retains the authority to reinstate the tariffs. (PC: India Today)