🚨 Sambhal Violence: Panel Says It Was Pre-Planned

A judicial panel concluded that the 2024 Sambhal violence was a pre-planned conspiracy, naming SP MP Zia ur Rahman Barq and MLA Iqbal Mehmood's son. The violence occurred on November 24, 2024, near Shahi Jama Masjid during an ASI survey, resulting in four deaths. The report found that false rumours fueled the unrest and ruled out police firing as the cause of death. The commission also noted significant demographic changes in Sambhal, where Muslims now form about 85% of the population. Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath referenced the report while discussing the state's shift in policy.

🏏 Rahane blames senior player exit for India's Test slide

Ajinkya Rahane stated that the departure of senior players is the main reason for Team India's decline in Test cricket. This was discussed while he was speaking on the 'Stick to Cricket' podcast in relation to India's recent struggles. Key senior players like Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Ravichandran Ashwin have retired or slowed down since the 2023 WTC final. The team has faced whitewashes against New Zealand and South Africa, impacting their WTC standing. The upcoming two-match series against Sri Lanka starts on August 15 at Galle International Cricket Stadium.

🏛️ Opp MPs question judiciary diversity in RS debate

Opposition MPs in the Rajya Sabha debated the Supreme Court judges Bill, focusing on representation issues. Concerns were raised by members across parties regarding low SC, ST, and women representation in the higher judiciary. The discussion highlighted a backlog of over 92,000 cases in the Supreme Court as of recent data. Members demanded greater transparency in judicial appointments and criticized the current collegium system. They also insisted that judge increases must extend to high and lower courts nationally. ⚖️

📈 Lilly crushes expectations with GLP-1 drug sales

Lilly surpassed market estimates due to strong, resilient demand for its injectable GLP-1 drugs. The company reported these impressive results in the US market. Specifically, Q4 revenue reached $15.1 billion, a significant jump from previous quarters. This performance further widens the competitive gap between Lilly and its rival, Novo Nordisk. Analysts expect continued growth driven by the sustained popularity of these diabetes and weight-loss treatments.

🐆 Meghalaya launches mission to save clouded leopards 🐆

Meghalaya has officially launched 'Mission Clouded Leopard' to protect its state animal, the mainland clouded leopard. This initiative was unveiled by Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma on Tuesday, August 4, 2026. The mission aims to cover habitat protection, research, and monitoring across areas like Nokrek and Balpakram. Currently, 21 individual clouded leopards have been identified in Balpakram National Park during scientific assessments. The ultimate goal is to secure viable populations while conserving the dependent forest ecosystems.

🗳️ Congress Chief demands contest against Bhagwant Mann in 2027

Punjab Congress chief Amarinder Singh Warring stated his desire to contest the 2027 Assembly polls directly against Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann. These comments were made while addressing the party during the "Har Booth Congress Mazboot" campaign in Chandigarh. He clarified that the final call rests with Rahul Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge. This challenge comes amid allegations from within the party that he has a political understanding with AAP leadership. Warring's stance aims to counter narratives from detractors as the party prepares for the election. 🗳️

🚨 COLDCARD phishing attack installs remote access tool

A phishing campaign is exploiting fears from a COLDCARD vulnerability and suspected $88.6 million Bitcoin theft. Proofpoint discovered this attack, which impersonates COLDCARD in emails sent from compliance@coldcardteamnews.com. The attack followed a theft of 1,367 Bitcoin from 4,585 addresses, which happened recently. The fake emails trick users into downloading a tool claiming a security audit is underway, needing completion by August 10. This download installs ScreenConnect, giving attackers remote access to the victim's device.

🏏 India's fielding struggles are a big issue

India's fielding has become a major weak point despite having expert coaches like Dilip and Ryan ten Doeschate. Their catching efficiency has seriously dropped, with Zimbabwe outperforming the Indian team in this regard. Over the past period since June, India dropped 28 catches across international matches, achieving a modest 76.8 per cent efficiency. Frequent personnel changes and player commitment issues are cited as key contributing factors to this decline. This issue will be crucial as India faces Sri Lanka in upcoming Tests, demanding better focus and fitness. 🏏

📉 India's fielding is becoming a major weakness

India's fielding performance has seriously dropped, becoming a major weakness for the team recently. This issue is apparent during tours, notably the disappointing UK trip, where performance dipped significantly. Since June, the men's team has dropped 28 catches across various international fixtures, averaging a modest 76.8% efficiency. Former coach R Sridhar noted that player commitment and frequent personnel changes are key challenges in maintaining high standards. Close-in fielding will be crucial for the upcoming two Tests in Sri Lanka, posing a test for the new coach. 🏏

🚢 Ports automating, DGMA warns about cyber risks 🚢

The Directorate General of Maritime Administration (DGMA) has issued a warning regarding cyber threats in ports. This advisory highlights vulnerabilities in systems like terminal operating systems and cargo handling infrastructure across ports. The risks include unauthorized access, malware, and ransomware attacks on these interconnected systems. DGMA advises ports to include cyber security risk assessments in their security plans to boost resilience. Furthermore, regular testing of backup arrangements and personnel awareness is strongly recommended.

🏏 Babar Azam's team wins away Test in Port of Spain

Pakistan secured their first away Test win in three years by defeating the West Indies by eight wickets. This match took place in Port of Spain on Wednesday, concluding a two-match series with a 1-1 scoreline. The win came after Pakistan had an eight-match losing streak in away Tests, marking a comeback. Babar Azam and coach Sarfaraz Ahmed led the team to this success, chasing a target of 75 runs. The victory also moved Pakistan up to eighth place in the World Test Championship standings. 🏏