🎬 Documentary on Umar Khalid faces CBFC block

Screenings of the documentary 'Prisoner No 626710 is Present' about Umar Khalid have been cancelled twice. The film's story is told by his friends and was planned for NLSIU on September 14 and IIIT Hyderabad on September 18. CBFC warned against showing an uncertified film, citing the Cinematograph Act. Experts question if this applies to private screenings, highlighting concerns over free speech. The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting recently released guidelines mentioning 'anti-national attitudes'.

🏛️ Mamata Banerjee challenges EC name freeze in SC

Mamata Banerjee has approached the Supreme Court against the ECI's interim order freezing the AITC name and its Flowers & Grass symbol. This dispute occurred after rival factions, led by Banerjee and Ritabrata Banerjee, claimed control of the party. The ECI issued the interim order on September 17, preventing both groups from using the official name and symbol for upcoming by-elections. The Mamata Banerjee faction was assigned the name Mamata All India Trinamool Congress and the Football Player symbol. This arrangement is relevant as by-elections in Nandigram and Rejinagar are scheduled for October 6.

🔋 India's green push focuses on clean energy

Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized India's advancement in climate action, focusing on clean energy and sustainable transport. The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy reported that installed solar capacity hit 168.04 GW by August 31, 2026. Total renewable energy capacity reached approximately 295.55 GW during that period. This focus underscores the nation's commitment to cleaner mobility and environmental goals. Future plans will build upon this significant renewable energy growth. 🔋

💧 Pilibhit's Gomti River Source Gets Big Upgrade

The Uttar Pradesh Government secured approval for the rejuvenation and integrated development of Gomti Udgam Sthal. This project is located at Gomat Taal in Pilibhit, aiming for wetland restoration efforts. The approval includes a Master Plan with an estimated cost of ₹12.26 crore, sanctioned under Namami Gange Mission — III. This work will cover sewage infrastructure and hydraulic rejuvenation of three lakes. The construction phase is set for 24 months, followed by five years for Operation & Maintenance.

⚖️ Feudal Lords Clash with the Public

A significant conflict has emerged between feudal lords and the general populace. This clash is taking place across various regions of the country. The events unfolded around the month of July 2024, involving numerous local communities. This tension stems from long-standing issues regarding land rights and local governance. Authorities are now stepping in to mediate and resolve these ongoing disputes. ⚖️

🎬 Actress recalls intense family reaction to her romance

Actress Suchitra Krishnamoorthi shared details about her early connection with filmmaker Shekhar Kapur in a recent conversation. She first became impressed with him in Class 11, and their relationship developed despite a 30-year age gap. Initially, her mother strongly objected, even begging her not to pursue it. However, her mother later became supportive when the relationship faced challenges. The couple married in 1999 but divorced in 2007. 💔

🌱 Modi: India's carbon footprint is half the global average

PM Modi stated that India’s per capita carbon emissions are less than half the global average during a conference in New Delhi. He highlighted that India's 2024 per capita CO2 emissions were about 2.1 tonnes, significantly lower than the US's 13.4 tonnes. India accounted for roughly 8% of global CO2 emissions in 2024, showcasing development and sustainability together. The conference, organized by NGT, gathers experts from 17 countries to discuss climate challenges. Discussions will continue on Sunday, aiming to create a roadmap for future environmental issues. 🌎

♟️ Gukesh explains Arjun Erigaisi's loss in Chess Olympiad

World champion D Gukesh shared context for Arjun Erigaisi's shock defeat in the Chess Olympiad Round 1 in Samarkand, Uzbekistan. The defeat was against Thailand's 2363-rated International Master Prin Laohawirapap on Board 1. Gukesh stated that players endured hectic travel and waited about six hours to get their rooms. This organizational issue made Arjun tired, leading to blunders in his first game. India will next face Spain in the open section, while the women's team plays Mongolia on Saturday.

♟️ Gukesh explains Erigaisi's Chess Olympiad loss

D Gukesh provided context for Arjun Erigaisi's surprising Round 1 defeat in the Chess Olympiad. The incident occurred in New Delhi, where India’s players faced significant organizational hiccups upon arrival. Specifically, Gukesh mentioned the team waited about six hours just to secure their rooms. He stated that this hectic travel and accommodation issue left Arjun tired, leading to an endgame blunder in his game. Now, the situation has improved, and India prepares to face Spain in the open section. ♟️

🪁 Mumbai Police search linked to Palestine kite solidarity

Mumbai Police allegedly searched an activist's home looking for kites for Palestine solidarity. The activists, part of the Indian People in Solidarity with Palestine group, participated in the global Gaza kite campaign from September 11 to September 15. Uniformed officers conducted the search without a warrant starting at 5:30 pm on Friday. The group claimed this was an assault on democratic rights and privacy for flying kites. The organization demanded action against these alleged illegal police actions. 🪁

💸 Ghaziabad traders switch to cash over UPI MDR

Several traders in Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh, have started displaying notices accepting only cash for transactions. This protest is against the new 0.4% Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) for UPI payments exceeding Rs. 2,000. This new framework is scheduled to take effect from October 15, impacting high-value purchases. Traders worry about absorbing this extra cost, which could squeeze already thin profit margins. Moving forward, the government aims to keep the MDR within the payment ecosystem, but local businesses are concerned. 😟