August 4, 2026

Year: 2026

Assam floods: Relief efforts focus on animals

As the floodwaters in Assam recede, the focus shifts to relief efforts for animals affected by the disaster. A coalition of animal protection organisations and the Assam Animal Husbandry Department are working together to provide medical care, shelter, and food to farmed and companion animals, with a special emphasis on preventing the outbreak of waterborne diseases.

Delhi Police officer orders RAF to fire pellet guns at protesters.

** A shocking document has emerged showing that a Delhi Police officer ordered the Rapid Action Force to fire pellet guns at protesters, sparking outrage and concerns over excessive force and police brutality in India's capital city. The incident, which took place in January last year, has raised questions over the use of pellet guns against unarmed civilians and the increasing militarization of the police force in Delhi.

Sri Lankan activists and trade unionists express solidarity with Indian students.

** Sri Lankan activists and trade unionists have expressed their solidarity with Indian students protesting at the JNU campus, demanding better infrastructure and an end to the commercialization of education. The students' struggle is part of a larger resistance against the commercialization of education in India, and has drawn support from academics, intellectuals, and civil society across the country.

Karnataka High Court Strikes Down Health Security National Security Cess Act

** In a significant verdict, the Karnataka High Court has struck down the Health Security National Security Cess Act 2025, citing lack of justification for imposing cess on pan masala and violation of fiscal federalism principles, dealing a blow to the Centre's efforts to generate additional revenue for health and defense sectors.

Saudi coalition accuses Iran-backed militias of drone attacks

** The Saudi-led coalition has accused Iranian-backed militias in Iraq of launching drone attacks on the kingdom, a move that is likely to escalate tensions in the region and raise concerns about further conflict, as the coalition steps up efforts to counter the drone threat and tensions between Saudi Arabia and Iran continue to simmer.

Madras High Court strikes down jobs order

** The Madras High Court has delivered a significant verdict, striking down an order granting government jobs to relatives of victims who died in the 2013 Karur stampede. The court held that the decision to extend employment benefits was unsustainable under the law, sparking mixed reactions from various quarters, including politicians, civil rights activists, and relatives of the victims.