A mob of two thousand to two thousand five hundred people attacked RG Kar Medical College in Kolkata, assaulting doctors and vandalizing hospital property. The incident occurred on August 14, amidst protests over the alleged rape and murder of a post-graduate trainee doctor. State BJP chief Sukanta Majumdar criticized the Kolkata Police and the Trinamool Congress government for failing to maintain law and order. The Federation of Resident Doctors Association India (FORDA) has resumed their strike, demanding increased security and justice for the victim. TMC MP Abhishek Banerjee condemned the attack, urging swift arrests.

Ukrainian forces have reportedly used British Challenger 2 tanks during their offensive in the Russian region of Kursk, marking the first confirmed use of UK tanks on Russian soil. While the UK Ministry of Defence declined to comment on specific operations, sources indicate that elements of Ukraine's 82nd Air Assault Brigade deployed the tanks in the ongoing incursion that began on August 6. This comes after the UK provided 14 Challenger 2 tanks to Ukraine in 2023, with the UK government reiterating that all military aid must comply with international law and Ukraine's right to self-defense under Article 51 of the UN Charter.

A mob of hundreds stormed Kolkata's RG Kar Medical College and Hospital early Thursday, vandalizing property and terrifying staff. The mob targeted the seminar room where a trainee doctor was raped and murdered last week. Nurses recounted how outnumbered police officers sought refuge in hospital wards, pleading for protection. The mob wreaked havoc on the emergency ward, nursing station, and outpatient department, destroying CCTV cameras and other property. Nurses described the scene as horrific and have demanded increased security. Tear gas was used to disperse the mob, and additional police have since been deployed.

The High Commission of India in London celebrated India’s 78th Independence Day at India House with Indian nationals and friends of India. High Commissioner Vikram Doraiswami hoisted the tricolor and read the Hon’ble President’s address. The event featured a mesmerizing Bharatnatyam performance by Ms. Kanaka Srinivasan and her troupe, adding a cultural touch to the occasion. The celebration also included a soulful rendition of "Vande Mataram" and "Sare Jahan Se Acha" by flutist Gaurav, making the day memorable for attendees. The event highlighted India's rich heritage and the strong bond between India and the UK.

On Independence Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi met and honored Indian athletes who participated in the Paris Olympics at his residence in New Delhi. The Indian contingent secured a total of six medals, including five bronze and one silver. Among the athletes were Manu Bhaker, Sarabjot Singh, and members of the Indian men’s hockey team, who presented a signed jersey to the Prime Minister. PM Modi congratulated the athletes for their achievements and extended best wishes to the para-athletes heading to Paris for the Paralympics.

A petition to illuminate Marble Arch and Oxford Street in observance of Diwali is getting momentum on change.org. The petition started by Dipika Khaitan urges the Mayor of London to illuminate the iconic streets of London on Diwali, with a Sunday firework spectacle at Marble Arch. We at shorts91.com urge all our readers to be a part of this historic movement and sign the petition. The celebration of light symbolizes the triumph of good over evil and promotes cultural understanding in this diverse city. By honoring Diwali, we acknowledge the Hindu community's contributions and strengthen London's multicultural spirit. Join this cause and sign the petition by clicking on the change.org link below.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared the mpox outbreaks in Congo and other African countries a global health emergency. WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus warned on August 14, 2024, of the virus’s potential to spread beyond Africa. The Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported over 14,000 cases and 524 deaths across 13 countries, with cases rising by 160% and deaths increasing by 19% compared to last year. The new mpox variant from Congo has a death rate of approximately three to four percent. Vaccine availability remains critically low across the continent.

On August 15, 2024, Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivered his longest Independence Day speech, lasting 98 minutes, surpassing his previous record of 96 minutes set in 2016. Addressing the nation from the Red Fort on India's 78th Independence Day, Modi's speeches average 82 minutes, the longest for any Indian prime minister. His shortest speech was 56 minutes in 2017. This address marks his 11th Independence Day speech, and his third-longest in terms of duration. Historical comparisons show Modi’s speeches significantly exceed those of his predecessors.

Tens of thousands of women marched through Kolkata on August 14, 2024, protesting the rape and murder of a trainee doctor at RG Kar Medical College. The Reclaim the Night march, held on Independence Day, was fueled by outrage over the brutal crime and allegations of negligence. Protesters carried candles and torches, chanting for justice despite heavy rain and clashes with police. Smaller protests occurred in Delhi, Mumbai, and other cities. The case has been transferred to the Central Bureau of Investigation amid claims of a cover-up. Organizers hailed the scale as unprecedented.

In his Independence Day speech, Prime Minister Narendra Modi reaffirmed India’s commitment to host the 2036 Olympics. Speaking from the Red Fort, Modi emphasized the country’s readiness, citing successful events like the G20 Summit as proof of its capabilities. Competing with nations such as Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Turkey, India is positioning Ahmedabad as a potential host city. Modi also congratulated Indian athletes for their performance at the Paris Olympics, where India won six medals. He extended best wishes to the Indian Paralympic team set to compete in Paris later this month.