The US has launched new tariffs on imports from 60 trading partners, citing inadequate enforcement of forced labour bans. These duties, imposed under Section 301, replace expiring temporary levies. India saw its tariff rate reduced from 12.5% to 10% after demonstrating improved enforcement. The move draws criticism but human rights advocates see potential.

Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan’s resignation marks a pivotal moment in the protracted NEET-UG paper leak controversy. After weeks of escalating student protests, parliamentary deadlock, and failed government interventions, his departure offered the Modi administration a crucial exit from a deepening political crisis that had gripped the nation.

The Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) has ended its 49-day agitation at Jantar Mantar following Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan’s resignation and government assurances. The agreement includes FIR withdrawals, compensation for NEET victims’ families, and discussions on exam reforms, marking a significant development in student activism.

Activist Sonam Wangchuk concluded his 26-day hunger strike after receiving written assurances from the Centre. The government pledged no cases against peaceful protesters and committed to parliamentary action on examination system accountability and the critical NEET paper leak issue, offering relief to students nationwide, including those in Telangana and Andhra Pradesh.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has announced a new draft law to combat exam paper leaks, featuring fast-track courts and stricter penalties. The Union Cabinet will discuss the legislation today, aiming for swift passage in Parliament’s Monsoon Session. This move addresses widespread student concerns following incidents like the NEET paper leak, promising enhanced integrity for national examinations.

Activist Sonam Wangchuk concluded his 26-day hunger strike at Medanta Hospital, Gurugram, in the presence of Union Ministers. His decision follows government measures addressing the NEET paper leak and concerns over potential protest violence, even as the broader agitation for education reforms continues nationwide.

A Hyderabad family from Saidabad’s Vani Nagar has been devastated by a fatal car crash in California, US, claiming three lives. Nazia Salma, her daughter Hafeza Neha, and son Hafez Omer died, while husband Shaik Abdul Naveed and younger daughter Khatija are critically injured. Relatives in Hyderabad appeal for government assistance.

Chief Justice of India Surya Kant declined an urgent hearing for a plea against alleged police crackdown on student protesters from the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) at Jantar Mantar. The CJP, formed after the CJI’s controversial "cockroach" remarks, is demanding accountability for the NEET-UG 2026 paper leak and NTA reforms.

Rahul Gandhi, Leader of Opposition, alleges India’s education system is "rigged" with 152 paper leaks in a decade and no convictions. He demands Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan’s resignation, highlighting the immense stress and financial burden on millions of students, including those from Telangana and Andhra Pradesh, impacted by these systemic failures.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has addressed the NEET-UG 2024 paper leak, labeling it a ‘national concern’ and calling for strict action from both Centre and states. His remarks come amidst widespread student protests and arrests, emphasizing government support for affected candidates and the need to depoliticize the issue. This statement signals a potential shift towards coordinated efforts against exam irregularities.