US President Donald Trump concluded his China visit after high-level talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping failed to produce a concrete agreement on ending the Iran conflict. Both leaders reportedly agreed that Iran should not acquire nuclear weapons and stressed keeping the Strait of Hormuz open for global trade. However, no detailed peace framework or joint action plan was announced. The summit also focused on trade, Taiwan, and global security issues, with Trump claiming progress on economic deals involving Boeing aircraft, oil, and soybeans. Analysts described the meeting as symbolically important but diplomatically inconclusive amid rising tensions in the Middle East. (PC: AFP)

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has arrested chemistry professor P.V. Kulkarni from Maharashtra’s Latur in connection with the NEET-UG 2026 paper leak case. Investigators allege Kulkarni, who reportedly worked with the National Testing Agency (NTA), played a key role in leaking the medical entrance exam paper before the test. The probe has uncovered a wider interstate network involving coaching institutes, middlemen, and candidates. Multiple arrests and raids have been conducted across Maharashtra and Rajasthan as the investigation expands. The Centre has already cancelled the NEET-UG 2026 exam, while the CBI continues to investigate possible insider involvement and larger examination fraud. (PC: ANI)

A shocking family tragedy unfolded in Maharashtra’s Dhule district, where a man allegedly murdered his parents with a pestle after they reportedly insulted him in front of his wife. The incident took place in Shirpur’s Mahavir Society after the elderly couple returned from their daughter’s wedding and scolded their son over family matters. In a fit of rage, the accused allegedly attacked both parents on the head, killing them on the spot. Neighbours caught the accused while he was trying to flee and informed police. Authorities have arrested him and launched an investigation into the brutal double murder. (PC: NDTV)

The West Bengal government suspended three senior IPS officers, including former Kolkata Police Commissioner Vineet Goyal, over alleged lapses in handling the 2024 RG Kar Medical College rape-murder case. Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari said the officers were accused of mishandling the investigation, delaying FIR procedures and allegedly offering money to the victim’s family. Departmental inquiries have also been initiated against the officers. The RG Kar case had sparked nationwide outrage and massive protests demanding justice for the victim. The Central Bureau of Investigation continues to probe the case while political scrutiny over police conduct remains intense. (PC: PTI)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the United Arab Emirates and secured key agreements on defence, energy security, maritime infrastructure and investment. India and the UAE signed a Strategic Defence Partnership framework, along with deals on strategic petroleum reserves and long-term LPG supplies to strengthen India’s energy security amid global tensions. The UAE also announced nearly USD 5 billion in investments for Indian infrastructure, banking and housing finance projects. An MoU was signed to develop a ship repair cluster at Vadinar in Gujarat. Both nations stressed regional stability, secure trade routes and expanding bilateral trade beyond USD 100 billion. (PC: India Today)

West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari on Friday suspended three senior IPS officers over alleged mishandling of the 2024 RG Kar Hospital rape and murder case. The officers are Vineet Goyal, Indira Mukherjee and Abhishek Gupta. Adhikari said a departmental inquiry will examine delays in filing the FIR and allegations that money was offered to the victim’s family. He said phone records and WhatsApp chats will be checked to find out whether any minister gave instructions. The Central Bureau of Investigation is separately investigating the main crime. (PC: PTI)

The Supreme Court of India on Friday announced several steps to reduce fuel use. The measures include virtual hearings on selected days, two days of work from home for up to 50 per cent of registry staff, and carpooling for judges. The decision follows Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s appeal to conserve fuel amid the West Asia crisis. Hearings on Mondays, Fridays and other miscellaneous days will be held through video conferencing. The court said the new system will help save fuel and improve the use of resources while ensuring that judicial work continues without disruption.

Abbas Araghchi said there is no military solution to the conflict between Iran and the United States. Speaking in New Delhi after the BRICS foreign ministers' meeting, he urged Washington to negotiate seriously. Araghchi said Iran does not trust the US but is willing to give diplomacy a chance. He described the current ceasefire as shaky. He also said India and China can play a constructive role in restoring peace. Araghchi added that the Strait of Hormuz remains open to countries not involved in the war with Iran. (PC: AFP)

A family from Rajasthan at the centre of the NEET-UG 2026 paper leak case had allegedly obtained the NEET 2025 question paper as well, according to police sources. Investigators said all five children of the Biwal family received the paper before last year’s exam. Mangilal and Dinesh Biwal are accused of buying and selling leaked papers through a wider network. Vikas Biwal, an MBBS student and Mangilal’s son, allegedly helped distribute the 2026 paper after Rs 65 lakh was paid. The CBI is now investigating the case. Officials believe the leak was part of a long-running organised racket linked to coaching centres.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Abu Dhabi on Friday and held talks with UAE President Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. The two countries signed agreements on LPG supply, strategic petroleum reserves and defence cooperation. They also announced a $5 billion investment in Indian infrastructure. Modi said India supports peace and stability in the Middle East and called for the Strait of Hormuz to remain open. The UAE is India’s third-largest trade partner and an important energy partner for India.