Tamil Nadu Minister Durai Murugan, a senior DMK leader, sharply responded to superstar Rajinikanth’s comment on the "old guards" of DMK. Rajinikanth had praised Chief Minister MK Stalin for handling senior leaders effectively, comparing them to "old students." Murugan retorted, drawing a parallel to the film industry, stating that young actors aren't getting opportunities because elderly actors, "with beards and no teeth," cling to their roles. The remarks have sparked widespread debate, with many interpreting Murugan's response as a direct attack on Rajinikanth. Rajinikanth had also lauded Stalin for continuing his father’s legacy.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu warned that recent strikes in Lebanon against Hezbollah were "not the final word" in Israel's military campaign. In a cabinet meeting, he emphasized Israel's success in destroying thousands of Hezbollah's short-range rockets aimed at civilians in the Galilee. Netanyahu also confirmed that the Israeli Defense Forces intercepted all Hezbollah drones targeting central Israel. Reports suggest the drones were aimed at the Mossad headquarters near Tel Aviv. Netanyahu highlighted Israel's commitment to securing its northern borders and ensuring the safety of its citizens.

The Kerala government has constituted a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to investigate allegations of harassment and exploitation raised by female actors in the Malayalam film industry. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan met with top police officials to form the SIT, which includes senior female police officers. The move follows resignations by prominent figures, including filmmaker Ranjith and actor Siddique, amid misconduct allegations. The Hema Committee report highlighted a "criminal gang" controlling the industry, detailing widespread harassment. The government is addressing gender inequality in response to these findings.

Dr. Ramesh Babu Peramsetty, an Indian-origin physician from Andhra Pradesh, was shot dead in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, on August 23, 2024. The prominent doctor, with thirty-eight years of medical experience, was the founder and medical director of the Crimson Network. He was also recognized for his work during the COVID-19 pandemic. Local reports state that a street in Tuscaloosa was named after him for his contributions to healthcare. Dr. Peramsetty is survived by his wife, two sons, and two daughters. The Crimson Care Network has requested privacy for the grieving family.

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has completed a polygraph test on Sanjay Roy, the main accused in the Kolkata doctor rape-murder case at RG Kar Medical College. The CBI is also probing financial irregularities and conducted raids at the residence of Sandip Ghosh, the former principal of the college. The investigation includes six others, with the court approving polygraph tests on them. The brutal rape and murder of a junior doctor occurred at the hospital on August 8-9, 2024. The investigation remains ongoing.

National Conference Vice President Omar Abdullah criticized PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti for offering to leave all seats to the Congress-NC alliance if her party's agenda is accepted. Abdullah accused Mufti of copying the NC’s manifesto, stating, “You have already accepted our agenda... Then do not field candidates and come, we will build a better tomorrow for Jammu and Kashmir.” Mufti had previously offered her party's full support to the alliance, emphasizing the importance of resolving the Kashmir issue. Abdullah also noted that the PDP’s manifesto closely mirrors the NC’s promises.

A viral photo shows Kannada actor Darshan Thoogudeepa, accused in a murder case, receiving VIP treatment inside Bengaluru's Parappana Agrahara Central Prison. The undated image shows Darshan relaxing with a beverage and a cigarette, alongside rowdy-sheeter inmates in a jail park. The prison department has noticed the photo and summoned top officials for an inquiry. Darshan was arrested for allegedly directing the murder of Renukaswamy, a fan who reportedly sent offensive messages to Darshan's rumored partner. Renukaswamy's father has urged the government to investigate and take action against the actor.

Israel has declared a 48-hour state of emergency after detecting preparations for "large-scale" attacks by Hezbollah, the Iran-backed group in Lebanon. The announcement follows Israel's pre-emptive strikes in Lebanon and ongoing conflict with Hamas in Gaza. Citizens have been warned to brace for incoming missiles and drones. Hezbollah launched rockets and drones toward Israel in response to the killing of its commander, Fuad Shukr, last month. The situation has escalated tensions in the Middle East, with concerns of a broader regional conflict. An Israeli soldier was reported killed during the clashes in northern Israel.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah has vowed to make India drug-free, warning that "drugs not only ruin the youth but also weaken national security." Speaking at the inauguration of a Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) office in Raipur, Shah emphasized the need for a comprehensive strategy to dismantle drug networks. He stated, "Unless we attack the entire network, we will not be able to achieve the goal of a drug-free India." Shah highlighted a sharp increase in drug-related cases and arrests in the last decade, urging a "zero-tolerance" policy against drugs.

Hezbollah announced the completion of the "first phase" of its attack on Israel after firing hundreds of rockets and drones. Israel responded with pre-emptive airstrikes in southern Lebanon, targeting Hezbollah positions. The Lebanese Health Ministry reported three deaths from the strikes. The escalation follows the assassination of a Hezbollah commander in Beirut last month. Israel confirmed the death of a 21-year-old soldier in northern Israel. Hezbollah's leader, Hassan Nasrallah, is set to address the situation later today. Tensions between the two sides remain high as the conflict unfolds.