💸 UPI's fee structure is changing with a tiny MDR

A 0.4% Merchant Discount Rate is being introduced for certain UPI merchant transactions above Rs 2,000. This change is happening across India, impacting merchants who process higher-value digital payments. The new framework exempts peer-to-peer transfers and small merchants below a Rs 1 lakh monthly limit. This shifts the model from implicit subsidies to a more commercially financed infrastructure. The impact depends on merchant behavior and psychological effects on payment choices. 💸

😠 Rahul Gandhi slams Modi over UPI tax

Rahul Gandhi strongly criticized Prime Minister Narendra Modi regarding the new Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) framework for UPI transactions. The Congress leader made these remarks in New Delhi, accusing the government of bowing to pressure from the United States. This new framework introduces a 0.4% MDR on specified merchant payments above Rs 2,000 starting October 15. The opposition alleges this is a 'Modi tax' designed to benefit the US, urging Modi to stand up against foreign influence. The government maintains this MDR is not a tax, applying only to merchants, while person-to-person UPI payments remain free.

🚗 27yo charged in Sydney over child's death

Sandeep Adhikari, a 27-year-old man, has been charged with negligent driving causing death. This incident happened in Auburn, western Sydney, where a three-year-old girl was struck by a car. The event occurred on Normanby Road on Tuesday afternoon, leading to the girl's death at Westmead Hospital. Adhikari, who is from Nepal, appeared in Burwood Local Court on Wednesday and remains on bail. His next court appearance is scheduled for October 27.

😔 Isha Rikhi talks about being played in relationship

Punjabi actor Isha Rikhi opened up about feeling betrayed in a relationship during a conversation with Kanika Mann on Bigg Boss 20. Although she didn't name Badshah, these comments followed their announced separation after a short marriage. Isha stated she trusts partners until shown proof, revealing she felt completely 'played' when the relationship ended. She described the experience as toxic, feeling like she was only valued for convenience rather than genuine friendship. She detailed feeling someone was keeping her close only when it suited their own needs. 💔

📱 Police can't legally jam your phone, says IFF

IFF has filed Right to Information requests concerning Delhi Police's use of signal jammers. This move challenges the operational legality of such devices used by law enforcement agencies. The specific details regarding the number of jammers and the exact dates of their deployment are being sought through the RTI process. The action stems from concerns about potential privacy violations during police operations in Delhi. IFF is now waiting for the official response from the Delhi Police department regarding these requests. 🧐

🏛️ Big Infra Push for Kalyana Karnataka Districts

Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar will launch development work worth ₹1,775.41 crore across seven districts of Kalyana Karnataka. This announcement was made by Home Minister Priyank Kharge during a media conference in Kalaburagi on September 16, 2026. The package includes foundation-laying for 557 projects valued at ₹1,071.56 crore and inauguration of 244 completed projects worth ₹703.85 crore. Regarding drought, the state will monitor rainfall for two more weeks before further action is taken. Kharge also urged the Union Government to simplify NDRF guidelines for farmer relief. 🌾

😠 Kharge slams Modi govt over US tariff threats

Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge criticized the government's foreign policy amid a US bill threatening 100% tariffs on Indian goods. This statement was made on Wednesday, September 16, 2026, during an award presentation. The U.S. House advanced the bill authorizing President Donald Trump to impose these tariffs for Russian oil purchases. Kharge argued the government capitulates to US pressure, harming 140 crore Indians across various sectors. The bill is expected for a final House vote later on Wednesday, September 16.

🏏 WPL Season 5 Auction Date Set for October 28

The Women’s Premier League Season 5 auction is scheduled to take place on October 28 in Kochi. This news was officially shared with the five WPL franchises on Wednesday, September 16. Teams have until September 28 to finalize their player retention and releases under a INR 15 crore salary cap. Mumbai and Vadodara are currently the confirmed venues for the season, which is expected in January-February. Royal Challengers Bengaluru is the defending champion heading into this next phase. 🏏

📱 Boox drops Palma 3 and new color notebooks

Boox has launched its third-generation Palma e-reader alongside two new color digital notebooks. These new devices include the Note Air6 C, Note Mini C, and the Palma 3. The Palma 3, priced at $340, is a smartphone-sized E Ink device running Android 16. The Note Air6 C features a 10.3-inch Kaleido 3 color display and AI features. The Mini C and Palma 3 are slated for future releases, though the Air6 C is available now. 📚

🚄 Delhi to Varanasi in 4 hours? HS rail blueprint ready

India is moving forward with a high-speed rail blueprint connecting major cities. The plan specifically outlines a route between Delhi and Varanasi. This ambitious project targets a travel time of under four hours for this route. The development aims to revolutionize intra-city and inter-city connectivity across India. Further details regarding the timeline and funding are expected to be announced soon. 🚄

🚗 Man hits, drags, and runs over girlfriend in Lucknow

A woman was tragically hit by a car, dragged on its bonnet, and then run over by her boyfriend after a fight. This incident occurred in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, on Wednesday. The woman, Anamika, was allegedly confronted after spotting him with another woman. The accused, Shahnawaz, has since been arrested by the police. Anamika is currently hospitalized and a written complaint has been filed against him. 💔