⚖️ Tejpal's rape conviction appeal faces surrender hurdle

Former Tehelka editor Tarun Tejpal challenged his 10-year rape conviction before the Supreme Court. The Goa government argued that his appeal depends on surrendering or getting exemption from surrender. The appeal was heard before Justice Alok Aradhe on August 24, 2026. Kapil Sibal countered that the High Court's existing stay made immediate surrender unnecessary. The Supreme Court indicated it would pass an order on this criminal appeal. ⚖️

🚨 CJP flags poor govt school conditions, demands answers

Abhijit Dipke, the CJP convenor, has written to education ministers across the nation regarding the state of public schools. He highlighted serious concerns about infrastructure in various government schools nationwide. The letter detailed that many students lack basic things like safe drinking water and functional toilets, even 80 years after independence. Dipke urged governments to address this issue urgently on a "war footing" for the future of children. He requested detailed information on renovations, teacher vacancies, and funding across all states.

🌿 Sibling duo grows saffron indoors, earning big bucks

Siblings Asthika and Shankar Narula are growing Kashmiri saffron inside a room using aeroponics in Ludhiana. Their family spent time researching and learning traditional farming methods for this venture. In their first season (2024–25), they produced about 1.3 kg of saffron and earned around Rs 17 lakh. Across two seasons, their revenue has now reached nearly Rs 26 lakh through exports to Australia and Canada. They aim to expand their network as climate change threatens traditional saffron farming. 💰

🍬 India sugar stocks are fine, prices expected to drop

ISMA stated that India currently does not face a sugar shortage, easing worries over recent price hikes. Industry body ISMA, alongside NFCSF, confirmed that domestic supply is fundamentally strong across the nation. Sugar prices rose 24% in one month to Rs 56-60 per kg, leading to duty-free imports being allowed on August 20. NFCSF projects 279 lakh tonnes for 2025-26, while anticipating some shipments from Brazil before October 15. The government is unlikely to strictly enforce the October 31 arrival deadline for imports.

🛡️ EVMs are offline, says CEC Gyanesh Kumar

The Chief Electoral Officer, Gyanesh Kumar, has confirmed that Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) are not connected to the internet, Bluetooth, or Wi-Fi networks. This statement addressed concerns regarding the security and connectivity of the voting machines used in elections. He specified that the EVMs are standalone devices, operating independently of any external network infrastructure. This reassurance aims to calm public anxieties about potential hacking or remote interference during the voting process. Authorities maintain that the system remains secure and isolated from external digital threats. 🛡️

📱 Galaxy S27 Ultra leak looks suspiciously like iPhone copy

Early leaks suggest the Galaxy S27 Ultra is getting a major design overhaul, featuring a horizontal camera plateau. This redesign is reportedly seen by leakers as very similar to the iPhone 17 Pro. The phone might also feature native Qi2 magnetic support and launch in two sizes. These details come from leaks shared by Sonny Dickson, Max Jambor, and Ice Universe. Samsung is preparing a big design shake-up, even if the inspiration is from Apple. 📱

⛈️ Bad weather messes up Delhi airport flights

At least 15 flights were diverted at Delhi airport on Monday, August 24, 2026, because of bad weather. The diversions involved IndiGo and Air India, who issued travel advisories for the capital city. Twelve flights went to Jaipur, two to Chandigarh, and one to Lucknow during the disruption. Inclement weather includes rain, thunderstorms, and winds of 30-40 kmph across parts of Delhi. Passengers should check flight status as over 280 services were delayed and more than 20 flights cancelled.

🥃 United Spirits drops court case after FSSAI lifts rum ban

United Spirits has withdrawn its challenge against FSSAI restrictions on certain rum variants after the regulator revoked the ban earlier this month. This issue involved the use of added 'rum flavour' in products from United Spirits and others, specifically in McDowell's No. 1 Rum. The ban was lifted following FSSAI's cancellation of its June 29th order, which affected sales from the Baramati plant. Old Monk maker Mohan Rocky is still contesting a similar ban before the Bombay High Court next Monday. This whole saga stemmed from FSSAI finding external artificial flavouring substances in the products. 🥃

🔬 Semen bacteria linked to pregnancy loss risk

A new Lancet study suggests a bacterial imbalance in semen might link to lower live birth rates and higher pregnancy loss risks. This prospective study in Denmark involved 353 women and 191 male partners undergoing fertility evaluations. Researchers found that seminal vaginal-dysbiosis was associated with poorer reproductive outcomes in IVF cohorts. The study noted a correlation, not direct causation, between these bacteria and miscarriage. Doctors emphasize that this adds another factor to complex reproductive health issues. 🔬

🎬 Jio Studios drops out of Brahmastra 2; new partner hunt begins

Jio Studios has officially backed out of the highly anticipated Brahmastra 2 sequel. The project, starring Ranbir Kapoor, Deepika Padukone, and Alia Bhatt, is being produced by Starlight Pictures Private Limited. Talks between the makers and Jio Studios did not materialize, and Dharma Productions is also not involved in the second installment. Following YRF's withdrawal after War 2's performance, Ayan Mukerji is now actively searching for a suitable studio partner. Industry sources suggest that given the franchise's success, a major partner should be secured soon.

🧐 BJP member demands probe into Kakinada 'love jihad' case

BJP State unit president Somu Veerraju demanded a probe by central agencies into the alleged 'Love Jihad' conspiracy. This followed the case in Kakinada city where Sarpavaram police registered charges on August 17. The incident relates to the suicide pact on August 16 involving Assistant Engineer K. Nooka Raju’s family. Veerraju alleged that the accused, Sk. Sadhik Khan, insisted on religious conversion and involved a gang. He asserted that the police must now expose the conspiracy behind this issue. 🧐