🧐 Messi visit inquiry heats up in Kochi

A Vigilance and Anti-Corruption Bureau inquiry is looking into the failed bid to host Lionel Messi in Kochi. The investigation centers on the involvement of government funds and potential losses to the exchequer from the planned event. Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan confirmed an investigation into suspected GST levy evasion amounting to ₹156 crore. The probe will also check for procedural lapses by GCDA and a ₹13-lakh trip by a former minister. The verification aims to determine if any laws were broken during the selection and planning process. 🧐

🏗️ Amaravati gets new road phase and steel bridges

Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu inaugurated the second phase of the Seed Access Road and two steel bridges at Undavalli on Thursday. This development, which includes 110m and 280m bridges, was unveiled in Amaravati, Andhra Pradesh. The Seed Access Road project, costing ₹1,519 crore, connects the capital to Vijayawada and Mangalagiri. Naidu stressed that Amaravati will be a deep-tech capital, aiming to be in India’s top five cities. The capital is set to be inaugurated by PM Narendra Modi in 2028.

🏛️ TMC eyes Supreme Court over 20 rebel MPs

The Trinamool Congress plans to approach the Supreme Court against 20 rebel Lok Sabha MPs who joined the Nationalist Citizens' Party of India (NCPI). This action is set to happen within seven to 10 days, as the TMC seeks their disqualification. The move follows friction with Speaker Om Birla's office regarding pending disqualification petitions since June 19. The rebels claim to represent over two-thirds of the TMC's 28 Lok Sabha MPs and are aligning with the NDA. TMC argues their merger with NCPI is not protected under anti-defection law. 🧐

⚖️ J&K HC strikes down contempt notice against Shopian DC

The J&K High Court has dismissed a contempt of court notice issued against the Shopian Deputy Commissioner. This notice was originally ordered by the Shopian judicial magistrate on July 10 against Shishir Gupta. The contempt charges stemmed from his non-cooperation in a report concerning Idris Shah’s immovable property. Justice Rahul Bharti observed that the judicial magistrate exceeded jurisdictional boundaries under the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1973. The court now directs a fresh levy warrant to be issued to the Collector, Shopian, for execution.

🧑‍⚖️ Rhea Chakraborty's unexpected lessons from jail life

Rhea Chakraborty recently shared insights about her 28 days in judicial custody during a YouTube conversation with Tanmay Bhat. She mentioned that the people inside jail were better than those outside because everyone there is equal and often innocent. Rhea was initially arrested by the Narcotics Control Bureau on September 8, 2020, related to Sushant Singh Rajput's death. Later, the CBI filed a closure report on March 22, 2025, clearing her of charges. She is currently seen in Karan Johar's The Traitors 2. 🧑‍⚖️

⌚ Best smartwatches for health tracking in 2026

Smartwatches are popular for tracking health metrics like steps, heart rate, and sleep. Various models are available for different needs, from basic fitness bands to advanced trackers. The CMF Watch Pro 2 offers daily tracking with AMOLED and built-in GPS. The Galaxy Watch8 Classic provides advanced features like ECG and dual-frequency GPS. Users should pick a watch based on their specific fitness routine and feature requirements. 🏃‍♂️

🐦 Bird Flu Scare: Nine Tasmanian Species Under Threat

A first case of bird flu has been detected, immediately putting nine distinct species of Tasmanian wildlife at risk. This concerning outbreak was identified in Tasmania, Australia, sparking immediate wildlife monitoring efforts. The first confirmed case was recorded recently, prompting increased scrutiny across various habitats. Experts are closely monitoring the situation to understand the spread and potential impact on local biodiversity. Authorities plan to ramp up surveillance across the state to prevent further transmission. 🐦

🏍️ Mumbai biker Riddhi Thakkar dies in Chhattisgarh crash

Riddhi Thakkar, a 24-year-old Mumbai biker, tragically died after her motorcycle collided with a trailer truck. The incident occurred on National Highway-30 near Markatola Ghat in Dhamtari district, Chhattisgarh, on Wednesday morning. She was part of a group traveling towards the Bastar region, and doctors confirmed her passing after treatment. Thakkar was known online for promoting motorcycling and inspiring women through her Instagram and YouTube channels. Her sudden death has led to significant grief within the riding community. 💔

🔥 Border clash erupts amid economic blockade in Assam

A fresh clash broke out between protesters from Assam and Arunachal Pradesh on Thursday in Dhemaji district. The confrontation involved Arunachal Pradesh Police firing in the air to manage the crowd on their side. This followed an indefinite economic blockade initiated by Mising community students after an alleged firing injured 12 people from Assam on Monday. The blockade demands a swift settlement of the long-pending border dispute and action against those responsible for the incident. Both state chief ministers subsequently called for resolving the differences through dialogue and friendship.

🚨 Gunman Tries to Assassinate Sukhbir Badal at Golden Temple

A gunman attempted to assassinate Sukhbir Singh Badal inside the Golden Temple on December 4, 2024. The attack took place at the temple entrance in Nanded where Badal was serving a penance ordered by the Akal Takht. This incident marks the second serious attempt on the SAD leader's life, following an attack two years prior. The punishment was related to sacrilege and the pardon given to Gurmeet Ram Rahim. Security at the shrine is now under intense scrutiny following this dramatic event. 😨

👮 Jharkhand police file FIRs against 500+ protesters

Police registered FIRs against over 500 unidentified protesters who marched towards the Jharkhand Assembly. The action was taken by the State police in Ranchi following the August 10, 2026, march protesting exam irregularities. While students maintained a peaceful agitation, authorities claimed some anti-social elements caused disturbances. The protestors stated the agitation will continue until the government agrees to a CBI inquiry. Security around the CM's residence has been increased amid growing tensions. 👮