🧐 BJP factions clash: internal drama heats up

Internal friction among BJP local representatives has reportedly intensified recently. This infighting is taking place within various regional party units across the state. Specific details regarding dates or exact numbers of disputes have not yet been made public. The situation reflects ongoing power struggles and differing political strategies within the party structure. Political observers suggest this internal dynamic could influence upcoming local elections. 🧐

🤖 Google's free AI plan for Indian students

Google is giving Indian students a one-year free subscription to its Gemini AI student plan. This access is available across India and includes premium tools like Gemini Omni for video generation. The plan offers 400 GB storage and boosted usage limits, normally costing Rs 4,000 annually. Students can also use study aids such as custom notebooks and interactive 3D visualizations. Plus, they get a discounted bundle of ad-free YouTube Premium with this offer.

😠 Manipur shuts schools over NRC vs Census protests

Manipur has declared a three-day closure of all educational institutions due to the prevailing law-and-order situation. This action follows protests by the Campaign for Just and Fair Delimitation (JFD) in Manipur's valley districts. The closures are effective from August 20 to August 22, amidst ongoing agitations. Protesters are demanding the National Register of Citizens (NRC) be updated before the Census 2027 exercise. The JFD has also announced a boycott of all government offices starting Thursday. 😠

📱 Samsung confirms S26 family addition on Aug 27

Samsung has confirmed a virtual event called 'Galaxy Event August 2026' for August 27th. This event, scheduled for 8am ET / 5am PT, will unveil the newest device in the Galaxy S26 family. Expectations point toward the budget-friendly Galaxy S26 FE, which might have minor updates. The event could also debut the Galaxy Tab S12 and possibly new Galaxy Buds. This announcement signals Samsung's continued focus on updating its mobile lineup. 📱

🧐 India removes barricades outside Pakistan High Commission

Authorities removed traffic bollards and barricades outside the Pakistan High Commission in New Delhi on Thursday. This action followed Pakistani authorities dismantling security barricades near the Indian High Commission in Islamabad three days prior. The removal occurred amid heightened diplomatic tensions regarding the US envoy's comments on Jammu and Kashmir. US ambassador Sergio Gor called J&K an "important part of India," leading Pakistan to summon a US diplomat. Officials have not officially linked this removal to Pakistan's diplomatic protest. 🧐

🏸 18yo American stuns Lakshya Sen at BWF Worlds

American player Garret Tan shocked everyone by defeating India's No. 1 Lakshya Sen at the BWF World Championships. This took place in the second round at the Indira Gandhi Indoor Stadium in Delhi. Tan, ranked 92nd, won the match 21-19, 21-17, 19-21 over 73 minutes on Wednesday. This victory propelled the 18-year-old into the pre-quarter-finals, making his Friday flight plans uncertain. Tan showed solid defense and power to overcome the pressure of the home crowd.

🚨 Shahzad Bhatti claims many remain free after crackdown

Shahzad Bhatti stated that many of his associates are still at large following the recent crackdown. This development comes after arrests were made in connection with the ongoing situation. Specifically, he mentioned that around 3000 of his men are not yet detained. This statement suggests the operation did not capture all involved members of the group. Future actions from the group remain uncertain following this public claim.

😠 Bhatti denies crackdown, claims 3000 men free

Shahzad Bhatti is pushing back against India's crackdown claims in a recent video. He asserted that the arrested individuals were from the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) and not his operatives in Pakistan. The government had previously reported over 200 arrests across 14 states following coordinated operations. Bhatti also stated that approximately 3,000 of his men remain free and offered support to CJP associates. This defiance aims to project continuity despite the operational setback for his network.

🏏 Bangladesh' win shakes up WTC race 🏏

Bangladesh' shock win in Darwin has significantly altered the WTC points table dynamics. This result put pressure on Australia, who still lead but have seen their lead diminish. Currently, 36 Tests remain in the current cycle for all involved teams. Australia needs six wins and a draw in their final 13 Tests to hit 60% qualification. Bangladesh needs 47 more points to reach 60%, focusing on their four remaining home matches.

📈 Stocks to watch on August 20th

The domestic stock market is set for a gap-up opening on Thursday, August 20, as GIFT NIFTY futures suggest a rise of 115 points. HDFC Bank and LIC are in the spotlight because RBI approved LIC's 9.99% holding acquisition in HDFC Bank. BSE is focusing on an agreement with MSCI for its indexes, while Hyundai Motor India plans a price hike of up to 1%. Aster DM Quality Care saw TPG sell a 6.66% stake for ₹4,451 crore, and Ceigall India won an MoRTH order worth ₹274.08 crore. 📈

⚖️ TN takes SC against Centre's dam guidelines

Tamil Nadu has approached the Supreme Court to challenge the guidelines issued by the Union Jal Shakti ministry. The state alleges these guidelines were unilaterally created to aid Karnataka's Mekedatu dam project. This move comes after the Centre cited a Supreme Court order while mentioning the project, which was last mentioned in a letter dated May 7, 2026. Tamil Nadu argues the guidelines violate the Inter State River Water Disputes Act, 1956, and could trigger further Cauvery disputes. The Supreme Court has not yet given a ruling on the state's petition.