In this busy world where people hardly find time to stay updated, Attention India brings you the top news and insights of the day. From zero tolerance for terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir to a gate collapse at a Kolkata event that injured attendees, BJP’s criticism of Rahul Gandhi’s NEET-UG remarks, a Saurya Airlines plane crash in Kathmandu, Kharge’s criticism of the Union Budget in the Rajya Sabha, Mohammed Shami’s near-fatal accident and recovery, and England’s ‘Bazball’ approach potentially surpassing 600 runs in a day, we cover all the major highlights. Stay informed and read on!
Zero Tolerance for Terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir
Nityanand Rai, Minister of State for Home Affairs, reaffirmed the Modi government’s zero tolerance for terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir, declaring that terrorists will face either imprisonment or “jahannum” (hell). He reported a decrease in terrorism, with 28 terrorists killed recently and a 67% reduction in casualties and 69% in incidents since 2014. Rai criticized the opposition for politicizing the issue, citing a rise in tourist visits as evidence of restored peace. Despite the government’s claims of improved security, recent attacks have sparked skepticism. The Modi administration’s decision to revoke Jammu and Kashmir’s special status is said to have contributed to the decrease in terror activity.
Gate Collapse at Kolkata Event Injures Attendees
On July 24, 2024, a temporary gate collapsed at a cultural event in Kolkata, resulting in multiple injuries. The incident took place at Dhanadhanya Auditorium, where West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee was present. The event, organized by the Information and Cultural Affairs Department, was held to commemorate the 44th death anniversary of legendary actor Uttam Kumar. The collapse caused chaos and injuries among the attendees, with some requiring medical attention. The authorities are investigating the cause of the gate failure and assessing the damage. This mishap highlights concerns about event safety and crowd management at public gatherings.
BJP Criticizes Rahul Gandhi’s NEET-UG Remarks
BJP criticized Congress leader Rahul Gandhi for his remarks on the NEET-UG exam, following the Supreme Court’s decision not to cancel it. The court found no systemic breach in the exam’s integrity, contradicting Gandhi’s fraud allegations. BJP leader Ravi Shankar Prasad questioned if Gandhi would apologize for undermining the exam system and damaging India’s global reputation. He defended the government’s actions, highlighting that over 23.5 lakh students participated in the exam and the CBI investigated the alleged leak, leading to the cancellation of 155 candidates’ results. Prasad also addressed Gandhi’s criticisms of the 2024 budget.
Saurya Airlines Plane Crash in Kathmandu
At least 18 people were killed when a Saurya Airlines Bombardier CRJ-200 plane crashed and caught fire during takeoff from Kathmandu’s Tribhuvan International Airport. Eyewitnesses initially mistook the loud noise for a tire burst, but soon realized it was a plane crash. The aircraft suffered a runway excursion and exploded into flames, with the impact reportedly avoided a nearby residential area thanks to a container it struck. Fifteen died on the spot, while three succumbed to injuries later. Airport services were briefly halted but have resumed. Nepal’s air safety record remains poor, with nearly 350 fatalities in crashes since 2000.
Kharge Criticizes Union Budget in Rajya Sabha
In the Rajya Sabha, Leader of Opposition Mallikarjun Kharge criticized the Union Budget 2024-25, claiming it was discriminatory towards states except Bihar and Andhra Pradesh. Kharge accused the budget of favoring a few states and failing to address the needs of Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh, and Karnataka. He sarcastically remarked on Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman’s speaking skills, suggesting she is an expert at talking but ineffective in addressing state concerns. Sitharaman defended the budget, stating that not every state can be named and citing significant projects like the Vadhavan port for Maharashtra. The INDIA bloc, including Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi, protested the alleged bias in the budget.
Mohammed Shami’s Near-Fatal Accident and Recovery
Mohammed Shami, who is recovering from an ankle injury and eyeing a comeback for the Test series against New Zealand, faced a near-fatal car accident in 2018 shortly after being cleared of match-fixing charges. Shami and friend Umesh Kumar were traveling to Dehradun when a truck collided with their vehicle. Shami sustained severe injuries, with his face covered in blood. Umesh described the crash as a life-threatening ordeal, highlighting the truck’s collision with their car and the close proximity to a transformer and ditch. Despite these setbacks, Shami has continued to battle personal and professional challenges, including a tumultuous past and a lengthy period out of action.
England’s ‘Bazball’ Approach Could Surpass 600 Runs in a Day
Ollie Pope claims England’s aggressive “Bazball” style could see them score over 600 runs in a single day of Test cricket. England’s record for runs in a day is 588, set in 1936. Pope, confident in the team’s approach under Ben Stokes, believes they can surpass this milestone with their high-tempo batting. While England’s approach has been bold, results have been inconsistent. Pope notes that the team has previously scored 500 runs in a day, highlighting their potential. England is currently 2-0 up in their Test series against the West Indies, having won by an innings at Lord’s and by 241 runs at Trent Bridge. The final Test begins on Friday at Edgbaston.