📢 Rahul Gandhi's new protest game is hitting streets

Rahul Gandhi is deploying a persistent new political strategy involving surprise street protests and youth outreach. This latest move happened on August 21 in New Delhi, when he demanded an FIR for Sahil Lohchab. The incident involved a six-hour sit-in protest outside the police station, leading to the registration of an FIR. This shift shows he is moving beyond just raising issues to physically engaging with them. His tactics follow an earlier surprise protest during the NEET student protests on July 21. 🧐

😔 Farmer dies after SC/ST Act threat and ₹5 Lakh demand

A farmer tragically ended his life following severe threats related to the SC/ST Act. This incident occurred in a specific location, though not detailed in the provided text. The demand made against the farmer was a hefty sum of Rs. 5 lakh. The threat was reportedly linked to false accusations under the SC/ST Act. Authorities are expected to investigate this serious case further.

💻 Women face digital finance hurdles in platform economy

Despite improved basic bank account ownership, women in India are significantly lagging in digital financial capability needed for platform work. This gap was highlighted by an ILO-NCAER policy brief released on Monday concerning the growing platform economy. As platform workers rise to 12 million in FY25, women are severely underrepresented due to digital literacy issues and limited financial access. Only 25.2% of women could perform online banking transactions in 2022-23, compared to 47.1% of men. The report stresses that financial inclusion requires more than just loans, needing capital and security tools for women workers.

💰 Infosys hands out 70% average bonus; salary hike updates coming

Infosys reportedly gave its eligible employees an average performance bonus of 70% for the April-June quarter. This payout was distributed to employees across the company in India. The bonus varied from 65% to 80% depending on job levels and performance categories. This comes amid weaker discretionary spending and AI disruptions in the tech industry. Employees are now waiting for annual salary revision details, which might happen in two stages. 💰

💔 Ishaan Khatter and Chandni Bainz split amicably

Actor Ishaan Khatter and model Chandni Bainz have reportedly parted ways after rumours of dating for over a year. The split was confirmed by a source, stating they decided to move on amicably. Ishaan, aged 30, is currently focusing on his career and is set to shoot Season 2 of The Royals in September. Furthermore, he has Jugaadu in his upcoming film schedule, marking his lead role. This marks a new phase for Ishaan as he moves forward solo.

😠 Kharge claims BJP is indirectly banning jobs via reservations

M Kharge has accused the BJP of implementing an indirect ban on jobs through reservation policies. This accusation was made by Kharge in a political statement regarding recent hiring trends. The specific numbers or dates related to the jobs or policies were not provided in the source material. Kharge's statement suggests that the current system is creating adverse effects on employment opportunities. Further political developments on this issue are anticipated in the coming weeks.

🚨 Kerala suspends Dy.SP over arrest lapses in Nithin Raj case

The Kerala government suspended Deputy Superintendent of Police Sudheer Kallan due to procedural lapses in arresting M.K. Ram. This action follows criticism from the Kerala High Court regarding the department's failure to discipline the officer previously. The incident involves the death of R.L. Nithin Raj, a BDS student from Anjarakkandy Dental College in Kannur. The court had questioned why the department hadn't disciplined the officer whose lapse led to Dr. Ram's release on July 20. An internal inquiry will now be conducted by the Home department concerning this whole matter. 🚨

🚕 CM Fadnavis on Marathi requirement for drivers

Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis addressed the protests by auto and taxi drivers regarding the Marathi language mandate in Mumbai. He clarified that Hindi-speaking drivers only need basic Marathi to perform their jobs, not full fluency. The Mahayuti government is offering time for drivers to learn, and deadlines have already been extended three times. Drivers failing to comply initially face a three-month license suspension, with potential cancellation later. Fadnavis assured that the government would not unfairly target anyone based on language proficiency. 🚕

🏗️ Rajasthan launches big school repair plan amid heat

The Rajasthan government has introduced an ambitious plan to overhaul the state's school infrastructure. This initiative was announced amidst public debate concerning the current dilapidated conditions across the state. The BJP proposes a three-year plan backed by substantial funding for these necessary repairs. Meanwhile, the Congress party is heavily criticizing the government for past implementation gaps. The plan aims to address urgent infrastructure deficits highlighted by viral photos circulating online.

⚖️ Transgender person challenges Sabarimala entry ban in Kerala HC

A transgender person filed a case in the Kerala High Court against being denied entry to the Sabarimala Ayyappa Temple. Sathyashri Sharmila Rehemathali brought the issue before a Division Bench of Justice P. Gopinath and Justice S. Manu. She was stopped by police near Pamba Ganapathy Temple on August 20, 2026, citing a TDB instruction against transgender entry. Rehemathali previously visited in January and April, 2026, and seeks entry on Thiruvonam, August 26. The petition also requests action against officials violating the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act, 2019. ⚖️

📚 Rights Commission flags bad school infra in Telangana

The Telangana Human Rights Commission recommended urgent steps to upgrade infrastructure in state government schools. The Commission took suo motu cognizance based on media reports about students studying under trees and in community buildings. Reports from Adilabad, Jangaon, Nalgonda, and Suryapet showed issues like broken classrooms and toilet shortages. Noting these affect student safety and dignity, the Commission directed the Principal Secretary to get reports from all District Educational Officers. The department must report actions taken to the Chief Secretary within six months.