QUICKREADS
New Articles
Swipe up for the next story
1,040 Maoists surrendered in 2025, says police data
In 2025, over 1,000 Maoists have surrendered in Chhattisgarh, marking the highest annual total as security forces ramp up efforts against Left-Wing Extremism ahead of the 2026 deadline. This year’s surrenders surpass last year's 881, driven by government policy, intensified crackdowns, and internal discord within Maoist leadership. Anticipation grows for more surrenders before Prime Minister Modi's upcoming visit.
137 Indian institutions in QS rankings but none in top 50
No Indian university made it to the top 50 in the QS World University Rankings: Asia 2026, released recently. Despite a significant rise in the number of Indian institutions ranked (294 total), major IITs have seen declines in their positions. India ranks second in additions to the list, following China, while several universities achieved their highest rankings.
Profits from inflated shares are ‘proceeds of crime’, says HC
The Delhi High Court ruled that profits from trading shares inflated through fraud are considered “proceeds of crime” under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act. The decision upheld the Enforcement Directorate’s attachment of Prakash Industries Limited’s assets linked to fraudulent coal block allocations, overturning a previous ruling that claimed such trading was not criminal activity.
Eight killed in Chhattisgarh train collision
A train collision near Bilaspur station in Chhattisgarh resulted in eight deaths and 11 injuries when a passenger train overshot a red signal and crashed into a goods train. The accident occurred around 4 pm, with one coach ending up atop a cargo wagon. Rescue operations are ongoing, and the Railway Board announced compensation for victims' families.
SC says merit won’t be compromised in distt judiciary promotions
The Supreme Court has stated that merit will remain paramount in promotions within the district judiciary while considering uniform criteria for seniority in higher judicial services. The five-judge bench concluded hearings on ensuring equitable promotion opportunities for civil judges. Concerns were raised about the slow career progression of judicial officers, leading to discussions on balancing promotee and direct recruit judges without compromising efficiency.
Deputy SP in UP police suspended for amassing assets worth ₹100 crore
A Special Investigation Team's probe into an extortion racket in Kanpur has led to the suspension of Deputy Superintendent of Police Rishikant Shukla for allegedly accumulating over ₹100 crore in assets. The investigation revealed ties between Shukla and lawyer Akhilesh Dubey, who allegedly extorted money through false complaints. A vigilance inquiry is underway, with further actions anticipated against involved police officials.
India and Israel vow to deepen bilateral ties
India has expressed support for the Gaza peace plan during talks between External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and Israeli Minister Gideon Sa’ar. They discussed enhancing cooperation in counterterrorism, trade, and regional connectivity, emphasizing a zero-tolerance approach to terrorism. The meeting set the stage for Prime Minister Netanyahu's planned visit, highlighting India's strategic partnership with Israel amidst ongoing regional tensions.
Poll roll revision ph-2 begins amid protests
The second phase of India's special intensive revision of electoral rolls has begun in 12 states and Union Territories, with officials distributing enumeration forms amid protests from opposition parties. The process aims to update voter lists ahead of upcoming assembly elections. Concerns over potential disenfranchisement have been raised, with political tensions escalating in key states like Tamil Nadu and West Bengal.
Barbs, bluster as rallies for Phase 1 of Bihar polls wind up
Campaigning for Bihar's assembly elections concluded as NDA and Grand Alliance leaders rallied for voter support ahead of the first phase on November 6. Key issues include jobs, development, and caste loyalty. PM Modi emphasized NDA's governance promises, while Rahul Gandhi criticized the ruling party's failures. The electorate of 37 million will vote for 1,314 candidates across 121 seats.
Op Sindoor’s lessons will find place in theatre plan: CDS General Anil Chauhan
Operation Sindoor's lessons are being integrated into India's theaterisation model, emphasizing service chiefs' roles in military operations, according to Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan. With 90% of the theatre commands' framework completed, discussions continue on refining joint structures and ensuring military synergy for effective future operations, particularly emphasizing the importance of air power demonstrated during the operation.
Is election patchwork enough to fix the ‘sorrow’ of Bihar?
In Kundah village, families are evacuating as the Kosi river erodes land, with villagers blaming the government for inadequate measures against avulsion. As elections approach, the Water Resources Department is hastily implementing flood management plans. Historical embankments have failed to prevent flooding and agricultural decline, leading to political tensions and community dissatisfaction with local governance and infrastructure.
30% candidates in fray for phase 2 face criminal charges: ADR report
A report by the Association for Democratic Reforms reveals that over 30% of candidates in Bihar's second phase assembly elections have criminal records, with 26% facing serious charges like murder and crimes against women. Among analyzed candidates, 43% are wealthy, declaring assets of ₹5 crore or more. The report flags 73 constituencies as "red alert" due to criminal charges.
HT interview: No matter how hard he tries, no room for Nitish in GA, says Kharge
Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge highlighted key issues for the Grand Alliance in Bihar's assembly polls, including unemployment, migration, and price rise. He criticized the NDA government's failure to address these concerns and emphasized their promise to provide jobs. Kharge dismissed BJP's claims of improved law and order, pointing to rising crime rates, and reaffirmed support for Tejashwi Yadav as the CM face.
NDA focuses on fine tuning vote transfer after seat reshuffle
The National Democratic Alliance (NDA) is focusing on over two dozen swapped seats in Bihar for the upcoming elections. Key leaders, including Chief Minister Nitish Kumar and various alliance partners, aim to ensure smooth vote transfers amidst past alliance challenges. The BJP is optimistic about winning two-thirds of the 243 seats while presenting a united front to counter new entrants like the Jan Suraaj Party.
Shooter among two arrested for murder of Odisha BJP leader
Police have arrested two additional suspects, Kurupati Bhuyan and Uma Shankar Bisoi, in the murder of senior advocate and BJP leader Pitabash Panda. A total of 17 individuals are now in custody. Bhuyan, identified as the shooter, allegedly fired at Panda on October 6. The investigation revealed details of the suspects' escape and clothing disposal.
NDCs can help limit global warming: United Nations’ EP report
The UN's Emissions Gap report warns that full implementation of Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) could limit global warming to 2.3-2.5 degrees Celsius. However, current policies may lead to a 2.8-degree increase. Despite potential improvements, achieving the Paris Agreement's goals remains distant, with significant emissions growth observed in major emitters like India and China.
