💰 RBI governor weighs in on UPI MDR proposal

The government is expected to allow a Merchant Discount Rate of 0.25% to 0.4% on UPI transactions exceeding Rs 2,000 made to businesses. This proposal was introduced in Parliament by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman via the Taxation and Other Laws (Amendment) Bill. As of Wednesday, RBI governor Sanjay Malhotra stated it is premature to comment on how these costs will be borne. He clarified that while the consumer might indirectly pay, someone in the general economy will eventually cover the charges. Further developments on the implementation timeline are still pending.

⚖️ Supreme Court urged not to drop student protest cases

A petitioner has requested the Supreme Court not to withdraw cases against student protesters. This plea was made to the highest court regarding the ongoing legal battles. The cases involve student protesters and relate to their demonstrations. The petitioner is arguing that future generations, Gen Alpha and Beta, will also be affected by these rulings. The court is expected to decide on the petitioner's request in the coming weeks.

🕊️ J&K protests mark 7 years of Article 370 abrogation

Street protests by NC and PDP took place across Jammu and Kashmir on August 5, 2026, to mark seven years since Article 370 was abrogated. The protests occurred in Srinagar, where NC leaders demanded the restoration of J&K's special status. Various political parties voiced strong opposition to the 2019 decision, calling it an assault on the Constitution. Opposition leaders alleged that their members were being detained in connection with the anniversary commemorations. The Lieutenant Governor, meanwhile, termed the date a 'historic turning point' while distributing appointment letters. 🕊️

✊ NC protests abrogation of Article 370 in J&K

National Conference leaders held a protest in Srinagar to oppose the removal of Article 370. Minister Sakina Itoo and spokesperson Tanvir Sadiq led the demonstration on August 5, 2026. The protest marked the seventh anniversary since Article 370 was abrogated in 2019. NC leaders demand the restoration of the special status and rights previously enjoyed by Jammu and Kashmir. The party has passed resolutions and sent them to the Union government to voice their demands. ✊

🚨 Wedding caterer files police complaint over unpaid bill

A caterer has approached the police regarding an outstanding bill of Rs 2.82 lakh from the wedding of Raja Raghuvanshi and Sonam Raghuvanshi. This incident involves the wedding that took place in Indore, with the dispute arising over a contract from the May 2025 wedding. The caterer claims repeated attempts to get payment from both families failed, despite sending a legal notice on April 1. However, police classified the matter as a civil dispute and declined to take action. The high-profile murder trial for Raja Raghuvanshi continues alongside this financial disagreement. 💔

🕷️ Spider-Man: Brand New Day keeps strong box office run

Spider-Man: Brand New Day maintained strong collections, grossing Rs. 23.50 crore on Tuesday at the Indian box office. The film, starring Tom Holland, has now reached a six-day running total of Rs. 347.50 crore approx. The first week is projected to hit around Rs. 380 crore, while the second weekend rebound will be key for the full run. The movie is poised to become an all-time blockbuster and might hit 2 crore footfalls. 🎬

✈️ EVA Air is bringing back Taipei to Delhi flights

EVA Air has scheduled the resumption of passenger service between Taipei Taoyuan and Delhi for the Northern winter 2026/27 season. The carrier plans to operate this route using Airbus A330-300 aircraft, starting with the first flight on December 1, 2026. There will be five weekly flights scheduled for this service. Previously, EVA Air operated weekly flights between Taipei Taoyuan and Mumbai from December 2006 to May 2008. Reservations are coming soon, contingent upon necessary government approval. ✈️

🚨 Kerala land protest wounds resurface after court verdict

The Muthanga land agitation issue has been brought back into the spotlight following a recent court judgment. This involved the Kalpetta Principal Sessions Court addressing the murder case of constable K.V. Vinod in Wayanad, Kerala. The court acquitted some accused on July 31, but convicted M. Geethanandan and others to five years' imprisonment. Adivasi groups highlight that Jogi's death, which occurred during the 2003 protest, lacks proper investigation. They plan protests starting August 9 to demand justice for past human rights violations. ✊

✊ CJP Dipke: Not starting a party, just a pressure group

CJP Dipke has clarified that his group will not be launching a political party. Instead, they plan to function purely as a pressure group to influence policy. This statement was made by Dipke himself. The movement aims to create significant pressure on existing political structures regarding certain issues. Future actions will focus on advocacy and public mobilization rather than electoral politics.

🚢 Trump hints at Hormuz Strait deal soon

US President Donald Trump suggested a deal regarding the Strait of Hormuz could happen as early as Wednesday or Thursday. This potential agreement involves Iran and Oman working towards reopening the critical waterway following regional tensions. Reports indicate that this deal would allow ships to use an Iranian route in, and an Omani route out, of the Persian Gulf. Progress is being made, which has caused Brent crude oil prices to slip by 1.2% to $78.43 per barrel. Further negotiations are ongoing, with talks potentially linking to lifting the US blockade on Iranian ports. 🚢

📺 LG drops huge new AI TVs in India 📺

LG has launched its massive 2026 AI TV lineup featuring 25 ultra-large models across various technologies. This collection includes its biggest 115-inch QNED Mini LED TV for the Indian market. Prices for the Smart AI TV range start at Rs. 19,990, while the flagship 100-inch model reaches Rs. 12,99,990. The new TVs run on webOS 26 with Gemini integration, supporting personalized features and cloud gaming. LG promises five years of webOS updates through its Re:New program.