⚖️ SC tells Delhi HC to speed up coal scam trials

The Supreme Court directed the Delhi High Court not to grant any stay on trials in coal block allocation scam cases. This order was issued on Wednesday, August 19, 2026, by a bench including Chief Justice Surya Kant and Justices Joymalya Bagchi and V Mohana. The court mandated the high court to decide pending appeals of the accused within four weeks to protect their rights. This follows the SC's 2014 decision that quashed 214 coal blocks allocated between 1993 and 2010. The aim is to expedite proceedings and prevent delays in these 57 CBI cases. ⚖️

🐛 Weevil meant to fight weeds starts wrecking native plants

A biological control program introduced the thistle seedhead weevil to combat invasive musk thistle in the US between 1969 and 1972. This weevil was supposed to target invasive plants, but it started feeding on numerous native thistles instead. The USDA Forest Service assessment noted the weevil attacked at least 25 native Cirsium species, including the endangered Sacramento Mountain thistle. This highlights the risk when a control organism spreads beyond its intended ecological niche. Now, efforts are focused on managing this established pest in the ecosystem. 🐛

🤔 Dipke questions PM's use of CARES fund

Dipke has raised concerns regarding the utilization of the PM CARES fund. He specifically addressed the Prime Minister in the context of the fund's purpose and usage. The fund was established to aid during the pandemic, with details on its disbursement being scrutinized. His statement implies that the PM should demonstrate genuine concern in his actions. This ongoing debate centers on transparency and accountability in government spending.

⌚ Garmin matches Samsung in global smartwatch market share

Garmin has matched Samsung in global smartwatch market share based on Omdia’s new shipment data. This occurred in Q2 2026, with Garmin reaching 15% from 11%, while Samsung also stood at 15% from 17%. Apple maintained the lead with 46% of the market share for the period. Garmin's growth was driven by demand for high-end sports watches and the Forerunner range. Future numbers will show the impact of the recently launched CIRQA fitness band. ⌚

🏥 Imran Khan meets family in jail after nine months

Former Pakistani PM Imran Khan reportedly met his wife, Bushra Bibi, and sister, Noreen Niazi, at Adiala Jail on Tuesday. This meeting occurred after a nine-month gap, following a Supreme Court order on Monday. The court directed Khan to be moved to Shifa hospital within 48 hours and stay there until September 16. Noreen briefed him on the court order and discussed legal matters during the meetings. The Pakistani government, led by Shehbaz Sharif, plans to challenge this Supreme Court directive. 🏥

🚨 Youth arrested in Edmonton shooting death

Police in Edmonton have arrested a young person linked to the murder of 16-year-old Jazmin Dhesi. Jazmin was found injured near 139 Avenue and 32 Street early Sunday morning after reportedly going to a friend's house. A fight broke out during the wee hours, leading the accused minor to open fire at close range. An autopsy is set for Wednesday, after which the EPS expects to release further details. This incident highlights the Edmonton Police Service's focus on rising youth violence and its new mentoring strategy. 🚨

🚗 Kia's Big EV & Hybrid Plan for India

Kia has unveiled a major long-term roadmap for its Indian market, focusing heavily on electrification. The company plans to introduce hybrid versions of the Sonet and Carens, alongside Seltos Hybrid by 2027. Kia is aiming for annual sales of 4.10 lakh units and a 7.6% market share by 2030. This strategy includes offering multiple powertrain options, not just going all-electric. Additionally, a locally produced small electric SUV is slated for launch by 2029. 🚀

🏸 Badminton Worlds action: Sindhu fights, Lakshya out 🏸

PV Sindhu is showing her form in the BWF World Championships against Wen Yu Zhang in New Delhi. Ayush Shetty advanced to the pre-quarters after defeating Dumindu Abeywickrama 21-8, 21-10. However, Lakshya Sen and Unnati Hooda unfortunately crashed out of the competition. Garret Tan won against Lakshya Sen, stating he trained in Taiwan and Los Angeles. The championships are ongoing, with various Indian athletes competing across different matches.

🍿 New OTT releases dropping this week across platforms

Several new shows and movies are dropping this week across different streaming platforms. For example, 'Welcome To The Jungle' premieres on JioHotstar on August 21, 2026, while 'Blood Sacrifice' lands on Netflix on August 20, 2026. Key releases include 'Outer Banks Season 5' on Netflix on August 20, 2026, and 'Jana Nayagan' on ZEE5 on August 21, 2026. These releases cover diverse genres from crime thrillers to romantic dramas. Viewers can catch up on all the fresh content starting this week.

📰 Media bodies criticize police seizure of journalist's devices

Press bodies have called the seizure of journalist Ravi Nair’s devices a 'sorry picture of press freedom in India'. The Gujarat Police searched Nair’s homes in Delhi and Kerala on Tuesday under an Ahmedabad court warrant. The FIR, filed by an employee of Adani Ports, relates to Nair's social media posts about a Washington Post article from August 11, 2026. Critics noted the seizure included devices of unrelated individuals and questioned the legal basis of the action. The foundation urged agencies to stop actions undermining India's core principles. 📰

⚡ Motorola's new magnetic charger could be a game-changer

Leaked images suggest a new Motorola magnetic wireless charging puck named Moto Snap is coming soon. This accessory, similar to Apple's MagSafe, features a USB-C connection and braided cable. The rumored device aims to make charging effortless, eliminating the alignment issues of old pads. Motorola is clearly trying to catch up with competitors in this premium accessory space. This highly portable charger could be a perfect match for the Motorola Edge 70 Max. 🔋