INDIA THIS WEEK FRIDAY, AUGUST 14, 2026 1 A We e kl y N e w s p a p e r Fe a tu r i ng N ew s an d Tren d s f ro m the In d ian Sub- Co n tin en t Pub li s hed From the U S Ca pi ta l Web Site: WWW.Indiathisweek.us Volume 36 No. 33 Washington DC. Phone: 301-445-0200; 301-917-4800; 301-445-1868 E-Mail: indiathisweekads@gmail.com Friday August 14, 2026 Vance Calls Prime Minister Modi, Discusses Deepening India-US Ties By Geeta Goindi WASHINGTON, August 8, 2026 – Vice President JD Vance spoke by phone with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday to discuss ways to further deepen the India-US Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership across key areas. During the conversation, Modi congratulated Vance and Second Lady Usha Vance on the birth of their son and conveyed his best wishes to the family. “Received a phone call from US Vice President JD Vance. We discussed ways to further deepen India-US Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership across key areas. Warmly congratulated him and the Second Lady on the birth of their son and conveyed best wishes to the entire family,” Modi said in a social media post on X. According to a statement from the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO), the two leaders noted the sustained momentum in high-level engagements between India and the United States and reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral cooperation. “They noted the sustained momentum in the high-level engagements and reaffirmed their commitment to further strengthening cooperation INDIA-US TIES SEE PAGE 4 New U.S. rule raises recurring H-1B costs for visa-dependent employers Washington, DC [US], August 10 (ANI): The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has expanded a $4,000 fee on H-1B petitions and a $4,500 levy on L-1 petitions to cover visa extensions submitted by certain employers, even when workers remain with the same company. Scheduled to take effect September 9, the final rule is expected to substantially increase recurring immigration costs for businesses that rely heavily on foreign talent. The regulation applies exclusively to companies employing at least 50 workers in the United States where more than 50 percent of the domestic workforce collectively holds H-1B, L-1A or L-1B status. Under the updated mandate, such companies must pay the 9/11 Response and Biometric Entry-Exit Fee every time they seek an extension of status for a covered worker. Previously, the fee was generally restricted to applications involving initial employment or a change of employer. Extensions filed by an existing employer for the same employee were exempt, provided the separate US H-1B VISA SEE PAGE 2
INDIA THIS WEEK FRIDAY, AUGUST 14, 2026 Trump Signs Executive Orders Targeting Birth Tourism and Tightening Citizenship Recognition Wa s h i n g t o n , D.C., August 6: President Donald J. Trump has signed two executive orders aimed at ending what the administration describes as the abuse of U.S. immigration laws through “birth tourism” and further restricting the recognition of American citizenship in certain circumstances. The first order, titled “Ending Birth Tourism,” declares that U.S. citizenship is “among the greatest inheritances the Nation can bestow” and should not be obtained through the exploitation of temporary visa programs. The administration argues that birth tourism operators encourage foreign nationals to travel to the United States on nonimmigrant visas for the primary purpose of giving birth on American soil, enabling their children to obtain U.S. citizenship. According to the White House, such operators often use deceptive advertising, promise access to public benefits and immigration advantages, and instruct clients to misrepresent the purpose of their travel to American consular and border officials. The order states that these practices undermine the integrity of the immigration system, divert enforcement resources, and weaken public confidence in immigration laws. The executive order defines birth tourism as either the entry of a foreign national into the United States on a nonimmigrant visa for the purpose of giving birth or any effort to facilitate such travel. Under the order, the Secretaries of State and Homeland Security are directed to revise rules, policies, and operational guidance to prevent the practice. The administration authorizes officials, within existing legal authority, to deny or revoke visas, refuse entry, remove individuals found to be engaging in birth tourism, and take action against organizations or individuals that facilitate such activities. Exceptions may be granted on humanitarian grounds or when deemed in the national interest. In a second executive order titled “Continuing to Protect the Meaning and Value of American Citizenship,” President Trump outlined additional policies governing the federal government’s recognition of U.S. citizenship. The order follows the Supreme Court’s June 30, 2026, decision in Trump v. Barbara, which addressed the scope of the Citizenship Clause of the Fourteenth Amendment. Citing that ruling, the administration stated that the order identifies categories of individuals whom it believes do not qualify for birthright citizenship under the Court’s interpretation. Under the new policy, federal executive departments and agencies are directed not to issue or recognize documents affirming U.S. citizenship for persons whose parents are not U.S. citizens when certain conditions apply. These include situations in which a parent is designated as an enemy alien or terrorist, serves as a foreign government employee with diplomatic or similar immunity, obtained citizenship through a commercial birth tourism arrangement or fraudulent activity, or where a child is born in territories where citizenship is not granted by federal statute. The order instructs the Secretaries of State and Homeland Security, the Attorney General, and the Commissioner of Social Security to ensure that their departments’ regulations and policies comply with the new directives. All executive agencies are required to publish implementation guidance within 30 days. The White House said the two executive orders are intended to preserve the integrity of the nation’s immigration system, prevent the misuse of temporary visa categories, and protect what the administration describes as the meaning and value of American citizenship. The orders are to be implemented in accordance with existing law and remain subject to judicial review and any future legal challenges. US H-1B VISA FROM PAGE 1 an extension of the worker’s authorized stay will remain exempt. The financial obligation rests entirely with the employer, with DHS rejecting proposals that would allow foreign professionals to pay the fee if their companies were unwilling to do so. Clarifying the requirement, the department stated, “The statutes and existing regulations specify that the fee is required to be paid by the employer.” Federal documentation acknowledged potential indirect effects on Indian technology professionals and other skilled foreign workers if companies reconsider the costs associated with repeated visa extensions. Industry stakeholders had warned that rising costs could discour- age organizations from retaining H-1B workers, suppress legal immigration and adversely affect foreign nationals navigating lengthy employment-based green card backlogs. However, federal officials dismissed those concerns, maintaining that the requirement affects a specific subset of companies and represents a modest expense relative to overall salaries, relocation allowances and recruitment costs. DHS also noted that H-1B demand has consistently exceeded the annual statutory cap for more than a decade, projecting that the change will not reduce the overall number of foreign skilled workers hired. Government estimates indicate that the expanded collections will generate an additional $37.9 million in fiscal year 2026 and $40 million in fiscal year 2027. The policy represents a significant expansion of the fee’s application. Data shows that between fiscal years 2018 and 2025, approximately 27 percent of H-1B filings by covered companies incurred the biometric levy. Under the new interpretation, about 75 percent of their H-1B petitions would have been subject to the charge. DHS acknowl- edged that its previous interpretation of the law was incorrect. Although Congress included extension applications when establishing the levy in 2015, DHS had previously linked enforcement to circumstances in which the fraud-prevention fee also applied. Defending its revised interpretation, the department said, “The best interpretation of that statute is that the 9-11 Biometric Fee applies to all extension of status petitions even when the Fraud Fee is not applicable.” Revenue from the fee funds the biometric entry-exit program used to verify foreign nationals entering and leaving the United States. Half of the collected funds, up to a designated cap, supports the dedicated biometric account, while the remainder goes to the U.S. Treasury’s general fund. DHS said annual fee collections fell from $158 million in fiscal year 2016 to $25.6 million in fiscal year 2025, arguing that broader enforcement is necessary to sustain facial-comparison and related identification systems at U.S. land borders, seaports and international airports rashtra) [India], August 12 (ANI): Two people died, and eight others were injured after a fire broke out on the 11th floor of a ground-plus-12-storey building on Church Road in Mumbai on Tuesday night. The blaze erupted at around 10:02 pm at the Shanta Bhavan Building near St. Xavier’s School in Vile Parle (West). The fire spread through the electrical wiring, electrical installations, AC unit, household articles, sofa, bed, false ceiling, and kitchen utensils area of approximately 4,000 square feet. According to Fire Officer V Bhosale, eight fire tenders were deployed to the scene and rescued 15 people from the building’s terrace. A woman and a child died in the incident, while two people were hospitalised.He added that the fire has currently been brought under control and the precise cause will be ascertained only after a detailed investigation.”The fire broke out on the 11th floor of the building. It has trol. Eight fire tenders are at the scene... the situation is currently under control, and cooling operations are underway. Fifteen people were trapped on the terrace; they have been rescued... one woman and one child have died, and two people have been hospitalised... the cause of the fire will be known only after an investigation...” Bhosale told ANI. As per the BMC PRO Office, the deceased have been identified as Abir (2.5) and Ankita (23). The four injured persons, identified as Abishek, are reported to be in stable condition. Further details are awaited. Earlier, a fire broke out on the first floor of the Byculla Police Station in Mumbai on Sunday, officials said on Monday. According to the Mumbai Police, the fire started in a room on the first floor late at night and quickly spread to surrounding rooms.The incident was categorised as a Level 1 fire. No loss of life or significant property damage was reported in the incident. (ANI) New U.S. rule raises recurring H-1B costs for visa-dependent employers fraud-prevention fee was not triggered. Addressing the rationale behind the revision, DHS said, “The regulatory changes correct DHS’s interpretation of statutory language to require that covered employers submit the 9-11 Biometric Fee for all extension of status petitions, regardless of whether the related fraud prevention and detection fee applies.” While the actual fee rates remain unchanged, the adjustment significantly expands the number of applications subject to the existing charges. Affected employers will incur $4,000 for each qualifying H-1B application and $4,500 for each L-1 filing. 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INDIA THIS WEEK FRIDAY, AUGUST 14, 2026 Massachusetts Governor Declares August 15 as 'India Day' State and city proclamations recognize Indian-American community and India-US ties Massachusetts Democratic Governor Maura Healey has officially proclaimed August 15, 2026, as ‘India Day’ across the Commonwealth, recognizing the Indian-American community's significant contributions to the state's social, economic and civic life ahead of India's 80th Independence Day. The governor highlighted the achievements of the Indian diaspora, noting that more than five million people of Indian origin live in the United States and contribute greatly to the nation's social, economic and civic well-being. She recognized the Indian-American community in Massachusetts for its accomplishments in medicine, science, technology, education, business and public service, saying these contributions have enriched the Commonwealth's cultural and economic fabric. In her proclamation, Healey noted that August 15 marks India's independence from British colonial rule in 1947, describing it as a historic milestone that laid the foundation for the world's largest democracy. She also recognized India's ancient civilization and rich cultural diversity. The governor acknowledged the community's continued efforts to preserve India's cultural heritage while promoting democratic values, civic engagement and cultural exchange through annual Independence Day celebrations and community service initiatives. She urged all residents of Massachusetts to observe India Day and participate fittingly in its observance. Separately, Boston Mayor Michelle Wu declared August 15, 2026, as 'India Day' in the City of Boston, recognizing the vibrant Indian-American community and the enduring friendship between India and the United States. Mayor Wu praised the community's rich heritage, entrepreneurship, scholarship, innovation and civic engagement, noting that Indian-Americans continue to strengthen Boston's cultural fabric and contribute to the city's growth and vitality. INDIA-US TIES FROM PAGE 1 in trade, defense, critical and emerging technologies, energy security and critical minerals,” the PMO said. The two leaders also exchanged views on regional and global developments of mutual interest, according to the statement. The conversation comes at a significant juncture in India-US economic relations as the two countries continue negotiations to finalize a long-awaited bilateral trade agreement. The trade talks have taken on added significance following the US Senate’s passage Friday of legislation targeting major purchasers of Russian oil and gas, including India. The measure, which passed 86-11, could pave the way for tariffs of up to 100 percent on imports from countries that continue buying Russian energy. The bill does not automatically impose the maximum tariff; the actual rate would be determined by the US Trade Representative, and the president would have authority to waive the measures. The Senate action adds another layer of complexity to the ongoing trade negotiations between Washington and New Delhi. The bill now heads to the House of Representatives. Indian and US officials have indicated that the negotiations are nearing completion. An Indian parliamentary panel this week urged the government to conclude the proposed trade pact swiftly while safeguarding domestic interests and securing stable and predictable market access for key Indian exports. By Geeta Goindi Vance Calls Prime Minister Modi, Discusses Deepening India-US Ties Her proclamation highlighted the establishment of the Consulate General of India in Boston as a significant milestone in strengthening ties between India and New England by creating new opportunities for cultural exchange, diplomacy, trade, education and collaboration. Marking America's 250th anniversary, the mayor recognized the historic visit of the Indian Navy sail training ship INS Sudarshini to Boston Harbor during Sail Boston, describing it as a symbol of the shared maritime heritage, friendship and partnership between India and the United States. Wu further acknowledged the many organizations that celebrate Indian culture throughout the city and recognized Apna-Sa – Sounds of Belonging for its contri- The Massachusetts State House in Boston, where Governor Maura Healey issued a proclamation declaring August 15, 2026, as India Day in the Commonwealth. butions to Boston. She encouraged residents to join in celebrating India's history, languages, arts, traditions and values while honoring the important role Indian-Americans continue to play in shaping the city's future. Both proclamations underscore the growing recognition of the Indi- an-American community's contributions and reaffirm the strong cultural and people-to-people ties between India and the United States. With tricolour in hand, Russian crew aboard ISS wish India ahead of Independence Day New Delhi [India], August 10 (ANI): Russian cosmonauts aboard the International Space Station have conveyed special greetings to the people of India as the nation prepares to mark its 80th Independence Day, holding the Indian tricolour and underscoring the enduring partnership between the two countries in space exploration. In a video message, the cosmonauts extended congratulations and recalled the decades-long collaboration between Moscow and New Delhi, identifying space exploration as a central pillar of bilateral ties. “Dear friends, today the Republic of India is celebrating its 80th Independence Day,” cosmonaut Pyotr Dubrov said, offering wishes for peace and prosperity to the Indian people. The cosmonauts linked the Independence Day observances with a significant milestone in human spaceflight, noting that the year also marks 65 years since Soviet cosmonaut Yuri Gagarin became the first person to journey into space. Gagarin traveled to India in November 1961 and emerged as an early emblem of the strengthening friendship between India and the Soviet Union. The cosmonauts cited his well-known praise for the country, observing that it appeared beautiful from space yet proved even more beautiful on Earth as the home of “true friends.” They pointed to the extensive record of India-Russia space cooperation, which began in 1975 with the Soviet launch of Aryabhata, India’s first sat- ellite. Nearly a decade later, in 1984, Rakesh Sharma became the first Indian to reach space aboard the Soviet spacecraft Soyuz T-11, an achievement that further cemented the relationship. Cosmonaut Anna Kikina observed that the partnership has moved into a fresh phase with India’s Gaganyaan human spaceflight program. Indian astronauts, known as Gaganyatris, have received training at the Yuri Gagarin Cosmonaut Training Cen- tre in Russia in preparation for the country’s first crewed mission. The message also referred to a joint competition arranged by Roscosmos, its office in India and ISRO to mark cooperation in space. Winning entries from the contest were displayed alongside the Independence Day greetings. “Long live India-Russia friendship,” cosmonaut Andrey Fedyaev said, holding the Indian flag aloft aboard the space station. (ANI)
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INDIA THIS WEEK FRIDAY, AUGUST 14, 2026 Himachal monsoon fury: 70 disaster deaths in 43 days, 204 roads blocked; damage crosses Rs. 910 crore Shimla (Himachal Pradesh) [India], August 12 (ANI): Heavy monsoon rains continued to disrupt life across Himachal Pradesh, with 70 people losing their lives and 204 roads remaining blocked in rain-related disasters and cumulative damage to public property crossing Rs 910 crore over The Poetic Pen INDIA THIS WEEK- Augst 14, 2026 Beware Guests Who Aims to Usurp You By Rajan George There are guests who seek your help, There are those who come to overturn, There are still some who seek fellowship— But discern their intent before you let them in! Some are very kind and will go along, Enjoying their lives in your company, Finding every moment they spend Extremely blissful, sweeter, and good. But there are those who seek to exploit Your benevolence and your life, Yet ungrateful for the privilege they receive, Sharing your roof, free from any pain. Inherently a burden to themselves, they Are never tired of being evil to all Who happen to cross their paths, for they claim They have rights based upon your virtues. If not discreet enough to discern such frauds, Good and innocent people will soon Be overwhelmed by such crooks Who seek to destroy a noble culture. America laid wide open its doors To the tired, the weak, the helpless, and poor. But with them crept in hordes of brutes Who seek to turn this nation around And shape it into the hellhole they escaped, Destroying the morals of the nation That welcomed them with an open embrace, Offering warmth and comfort in their distress. A nation founded upon virtuous ideals, The envy and admiration of the universe, Should remain firm as flint, Eschewing forces that seek its fall! The principles upon which it was founded, The freedoms entrusted to its people, And the values that have sustained it Through generations of triumph and trial. Compassion is noble, and hospitality is good, But wisdom must stand beside them both. For an open door without discernment Can become an invitation to those who would conquer. A guest should never become the master, Nor gratitude be replaced by entitlement. Let kindness remain kindness, But let wisdom guard the door. For those who enter seeking refuge Should honor the house that shelters them; And those who receive its blessings Should never seek to destroy its foundation. Beware, therefore, the guest who aims to usurp you; Welcome the stranger, but discern his intent. For generosity without wisdom may be exploited, While wisdom and virtue preserve what is precious. the past 43 days, according to the official report. The latest data from State Emergency Operation Centre (SEOC) covering the period from June 30 to August 11 reflected the extensive impact of the monsoon across the hill state, with roads, power infrastructure, water supply systems and private property bearing the brunt of repeated heavy rainfall, landslides, cloudbursts and other weather-related incidents. As many as 204 roads are currently blocked across the state, including two national highways, NH-154 and NH-21. Mandi is the worst affected district, with 80 roads closed. The key Mandi-Kullu route has also been disrupted at Jalogi Dwada. Kullu has reported 56 blocked roads, while 23 roads remain closed in Sirmaur. The continuing road closures have disrupted inter-district connectivity and posed challenges for the movement of essential supplies and emergency response teams. The monsoon has also affected the state’s power and drinking water infrastructure. A total of 45 Distribution Transformer Regions (DTRs) are currently out of service. Sirmaur accounts for 41 of these disruptions, all in the Nahan subdivision. According to the data, around 82 water supply schemes have also been affected across Himachal Pradesh. Sirmaur has reported the highest number of disrupted schemes at 31, followed by Hamirpur with 11 and Mandi with eight. Restoration of electricity and water supply remains a priority for authorities in INDIA THIS WEEK Phone: 301-445-0200; 301-917-4800 www.indiathisweek.online India This Week is published every Friday by ADV Solutions Inc, Views expressed in this paper are those of the individual writers and not necessarily of India This Week. India This Week accepts no liability for the errors in advertisements or in any of its reports. For remedial actions any errors should be brought to the attention of the editor by the information provided below. Publisher: Chief Editor: Contributing Editors: Dr. Babu Stephen Rajan George Saju Mathew Isaac George Asst. Editors: Manu Jacob Sherena Panjikkaran Special Business Correspondent Elisha B. Pulivarti Business Coordinators Rajan C. George Jithu Johny Panjikkaran Dr. Renuka Misra, Special Correspondent: Geeta Goindi Community Coordinator: Prof. Vinod Goel India Office Manesh Krishna Columnists: Anadi Naik World Religions Dr. Sam Prasad Jillella Photo Journalist: Mathew Karmel, System Admn. & Maintenance: Rajan C. George Layout & Graphics: Prinston Samuel, Business Affairs: Mrs. Molly George CALL US • 301-445-0200 • 301-917-4800 e-Mails: Advertisements: indiathisweekads@gmail.com Press Releases: indiathisweekpress@yahoo.com Web: www.indiathisweek.online the affected areas. According to the SEOC data, 70 people have died in direct disaster-related incidents during the 43-day period from June 30 to August 11.Landslides accounted for 14 deaths, while 23 people died after falling from steep slopes, rocks or trees. Seven deaths were attributed to snake bites, six to electrocution and four to cloudbursts. Lahaul and Spiti recorded the highest number of direct disaster-related deaths at 14, followed by Kangra with 12. In addition to direct disaster fatalities, 93 people have died in road accidents during the period. Chamba recorded the highest number of road accident deaths at 16, followed by Kullu with 13, Sirmaur with 12 and Shimla with 11. The figures underline the wider human toll associated with the monsoon, particularly in a state where damaged roads, landslides and difficult terrain significantly increase travel risks. Moreover, the cumulative damage to public property has risen to approximately Rs. 910.35 crore, according to the latest official assessment. The Public Works Department has suffered the largest share of the losses, Remember: with damage estimated at Rs 68,636.43 lakh. The power sector has reported losses of Rs. 20,389.51 lakh.The monsoon has also caused extensive damage to houses, other private structures, livestock and crops across all 12 districts, adding to the economic burden on affected families and communities. State authorities, departmental teams and emergency response personnel are continuing restoration operations in affected areas. Efforts are focused on clearing landslides and debris, reopening blocked roads, restoring electricity and drinking water supplies and maintaining connectivity to affected habitations. However, continuing rainfall and the possibility of further landslides and weather-related incidents remain major challenges for restoration work. The latest 43-day assessment highlights the scale of the monsoon impact on Himachal Pradesh, with the combined toll of disaster-related deaths, road accidents, infrastructure disruption and more than Rs. 910 crore in public property damage putting considerable pressure on the state’s disaster-response and restoration machinery. (ANI) “In Him was life, and that life was the light of men. The Light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.…
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INDIA THIS WEEK FRIDAY, AUGUST 14, 2026 Delimitation Bill Triggers Political Standoff as Government Holds Talks with Opposition; Congress, Regional Parties Raise Concerns New Delhi: The proposed Delimitation Bill has emerged as a major point of political contention, with the government and opposition parties engaging in discussions to break the deadlock over the legislation. Senior leaders from the ruling side and the Opposition held a meeting in Parliament to discuss the Bill, amid continued disruptions during the ongoing Monsoon Session. According to sources, Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju held discussions with Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi regarding the government’s proposed Delimitation Bill. The meeting, held in Rahul Gandhi’s Parliament office, lasted around 50 minutes and was attended by senior Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra. The discussions took place against the backdrop of repeated adjournments in Parliament, with opposition parties demanding statements from Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah on various issues. The government’s outreach to opposition parties is being viewed as an attempt to build consensus on the legislation and ensure smoother parliamentary functioning. Government Seeks Opposition Support Sources said the government has held multiple rounds of discussions with Rahul Gandhi and other opposition leaders to seek support for the Delimitation Bill. Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju is learnt to have conveyed the government’s position and sought the Congress party’s support for the proposed legislation. Congress sources said Rahul Gandhi suggested holding an all-party meeting on the issue and indicated that he would discuss the matter with leaders of the INDIA bloc. Government sources said the Centre has been engaging with the Congress as the principal opposition party while also reaching out to other political groups, including key INDIA bloc partners such as the Samajwadi Party and the Nationalist Congress Party (Sharad Pawar faction). The DMK has reportedly sought assurances regarding the impact of the proposed exercise before taking a final position. What the Delimitation Bill Proposes The Delimitation Bill, introduced in Parliament in 2026, seeks to redraw parliamentary and assembly constituencies and increase the strength of the Lok Sabha. The proposal includes raising the number of Lok Sabha seats from the existing 543 to 850. The legislation is also linked to the implementation of women’s reservation under the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam, 2023, which provides for 33 per cent reservation for women in legislatures. The proposed exercise would be based on population data from the 2011 Census. Supporters of the Bill argue that increasing the number of parliamentary seats is necessary to ensure better representation for India’s growing population and to update constituency boundaries. Opposition Raises Concerns Over Southern States’ Representation The Congress and several opposition leaders have expressed concerns that the delimitation exercise could reduce the political influence of states that successfully controlled population growth. Rahul Gandhi has criticised the proposal, arguing that the process could disadvantage southern states, particularly Tamil Nadu. He has alleged that the proposed delimitation could affect the state’s political representation and has urged political parties to oppose the Bill. The Congress has maintained that states which implemented population control measures should not face a reduction in their relative representation in Parliament because of demographic changes. Congress MP Manickam Tagore said that all Congress MPs from Tamil Nadu and Puducherry would vote against the Bill if it is brought before Parliament again. He argued that the legislation does not reflect the concerns and interests of the people of Tamil Nadu. Left Parties Call for a Long-Term Freeze Opposition from the Left has also intensified. CPI(M) Rajya Sabha member P. Sandosh Kumar described the proposed legislation as “draconian” and argued that the delimitation process should remain frozen for at least 25 years. Kumar said that states which controlled their population growth “Lathis, pellets rained down on children; you didn’t say a word”: Rahul Gandhi targets Amit Shah over police action on July 20 students’ protest, New Delhi [India], August 9 (ANI): Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha and Congress MP Rahul Gandhi on Sunday targeted Union Home Minister Amit Shah over the July 20 students’ protest, alleging that “lathis and pellets rained down on children” in the national capital. In a post on X, Rahul Gandhi said, “’I have no way out left now’ - This is what a student said to me yesterday in Prayagraj. Years of preparation, sold the family land, parents’ debts, and still nothing to show for it.” “This defeat is not his. This is the defeat of that system which refused to reward his hard work,” he said.Targeting Shah and PM Modi, he said, “Thirteen days have passed - not a word has come from Home Minister Amit Shah’s mouth. Instead of apologising, Modi ji is doling out pardons. Amit Shah ji, don’t think for a moment that we will stop demanding accountability. Lathis and pellets rained down on children on the streets of the capital - and you didn’t say a word.” “Whether today or tomorrow, you will have to answer for this crime. Students are the light of the nation, and I stand with them with my full strength,” he added. Earlier on Saturday, the Congress leader held the ‘Chhatron Ki Goonj’ programme at KP Ground in Prayagraj (UP), where he interacted with students and raised issues concerning them. Rahul Gandhi launched a blistering attack on the central government for the severity of unemployment in the country, claiming that out of every 1,000 young people, only 12 managed to secure a permanent job. Addressing a massive gathering of students at the ‘Chhatron ki Goonj’ event, Gandhi highlighted a grim reality of unemployment, stating, “Let me give you the figures: out of every 1000 young people, only 12 land a permanent job.” The Congress leader warned that the youth are being manipulated by digital platforms to get them “addicted” to social media.”As for your data, it is taken away from you; it is handed over to major corporations Jio, Adani, Facebook, and Google, and you are ensnared. You are told to watch as many reels as you like, send as many WhatsApp messages as you wish, and browse or create content on Instagram. This is the addiction of the 21st century, and then you are told to work for Blinkit or Uber, or to do manual labour. You can indulge in this 21st-century addiction, but you cannot get a job; you cannot find employment in this country,” he said.Gandhi stated that there are 40 crore “energetic young people” in the country who represent the nation’s true strength. should not be penalised through changes in parliamentary representation. He also rejected suggestions of adopting a 50 per cent formula for representation, arguing that it could increase regional inequalities. The Left parties have called for maintaining the existing balance of representation while seeking broader discussions on the principles behind any future delimitation exercise. BJP Defends the Proposal The Bharatiya Janata Party has defended the Bill, stating that increasing the number of seats is necessary for improving representation and strengthening democracy. Bihar BJP president Sanjay Saraogi rejected allegations that southern states would be unfairly affected. He said that Tamil Nadu and other southern states would also receive additional representation under the proposed expansion of Lok Sabha seats. Saraogi argued that the Delimitation Bill is a national requirement and should be passed by Parliament. He questioned the opposition’s claims of discrimination, saying that the proposed increase in seats would benefit all states. Parliamentary Deadlock Continues The discussions on delimitation have taken place during a politically charged Monsoon Session, where opposition parties have repeatedly protested over several issues. Opposition MPs, including Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, marched from the Gandhi statue at Prerna Sthal to Makar Dwar in Parliament, raising objections over issues including alleged police action against protesters and other matters. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi held interactions with BJP MPs during the session, including a breakfast meeting with 37 party lawmakers at his residence. The meeting included informal discussions and interactions with MPs from different political backgrounds. A Larger Debate Over Representation At the heart of the Delimitation Bill debate is the question of how India should balance population-based representation with the concerns of states that have successfully implemented population control policies. Supporters argue that a larger Lok Sabha is required to reflect India’s current population and improve representation. Opponents argue that the process must protect the political voice of states that contributed to population stabilisation. With the government attempting to secure wider political support and opposition parties demanding further consultations, the Delimitation Bill is expected to remain one of the most significant issues shaping parliamentary debate.
FRIDAY, AUGUST 14, 2026 9 “Ties will continue to grow guided by Act East policy”: Jaishankar reaffirms India-ASEAN partnership on 59th ASEAN Day New Delhi, India, August 8 (ANI): External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar on Saturday extended greetings to ASEAN member states on the 59th ASEAN Day, reaffirming India’s commitment to deepening ties with the regional bloc through connectivity, trade, digital linkages, resilient supply chains, defense, education and cultural exchanges. In a post on X, Jaishankar said, “Best wishes to our @ASEAN friends on the 59th ASEAN Day.” He added that ties guided by India’s Act East Policy and the India-ASEAN Comprehensive Strategic Partnership “continue to deepen” across key areas. He said, “Guided by our #ActEast Policy, our Comprehensive Strategic Partnership continues to deepen through connectivity, trade, digital linkages, resilient supply chains, defence, education and cultural exchanges.” “Confident that India-ASEAN ties will continue to grow in substance and ambition, contributing to the peace, stability and prosperity of the wider Indo-Pacific region,” he added. Earlier in July, Jaishankar co-chaired the ASEAN Post-Ministerial Conference with India 2026 in Manila, during which India and ASEAN discussed strengthening their partnership and cooperation across the Indo-Pacific. Meanwhile, in Jakarta, ASEAN Secretary-General Kao Kim Hourn officiated the 59th ASEAN Day celebrations at the ASEAN Headquarters/ASEAN Secretariat, according to an official press release on the ASEAN website. In his welcome remarks, Kao said this year’s commemoration marks “three significant milestones” in ASEAN’s journey: Timor-Leste becoming ASEAN’s 11th member state, the 50th anniversary of the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation in Southeast Asia (TAC), and the first year of implementation of “ASEAN Vision 2045: Our Shared Future.” The celebration was held under the theme “Navigating Our Future, Together.” The event featured pre-recorded remarks by Philippine President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., while Indonesian Foreign Minister Sugiono also attended and delivered an ASEAN Day address. As the regional bloc’s 59th founding anniversary was observed in the Indian capital, the iconic, centuries-old Qutub Minar monument in New Delhi was illuminated in the colors of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) on Friday evening. According to the Embassy of the Philippines in India, founded by five nations on August 8, 1967, ASEAN is now a community bringing together all 11 Southeast Asian nations: Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Timor-Leste and Vietnam. With a combined population of more than 700 million and a GDP of more than $4 trillion, ASEAN would rank as the world’s fifth-largest economy if considered as a single unit. Before more than 80 diplomats from ASEAN member states’ diplomatic missions and a large crowd of regular visitors to the site, the UNESCO World Heritage site lit up with the iconic rice-stalk emblem of the association, accented by the group’s signature blue, red and yellow colors, as the ASEAN anthem played solemnly over the monument’s grounds. The illumination of the Qutub Minar marked the first-ever projection of ASEAN’s symbols onto a major national monument anywhere in the world. The event was conceptualized and organized by the Philippine Embassy in India, which currently holds the ASEAN New Delhi Committee’s (ANDC) rotating six-month chairmanship, the embassy stated. ASEAN and In- dia established sectoral dialogue relations in 1992. Three decades later, in 2022, the relationship was elevated to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. Under their Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, ASEAN and India cooperate on a wide range of issues, including trade and investment, tourism, connectivity, agriculture, energy, culture, technology, education and people-to-people exchanges, the embassy affirmed. Highlighting the event on X, the embassy said, “The historic Qutub Minar was lit up in the colours of the ASEAN flag tonight to celebrate the 59th founding anniversary of the 11-member bloc on 08 August 2026.” A d d i t i o n a l l y, Singapore’s High Commissioner to India, Simon Wong, on Friday also marked ASEAN Day by celebrating the first-ever illumination of the ASEAN flag on Delhi’s iconic Qutub Minar, highlighting the close partnership between ASEAN member states and India. Sharing pictures of the event on X, Wong wrote, “Very happy to celebrate #ASEAN Day with our ANDC Family in New Delhi with the first-ever @ ASEAN flag illumination of the #QutubMinar. Many thanks to our Philippines Chair.” (ANI) Telangana: 6 killed, 6 injured after auto-rickshaw collides with truck in Sangareddy district Sangareddy (Telangana) [India], August 12 (ANI): Six people were killed, and six others were left injured after an auto-rickshaw collided with a truck in Telangana’s Sangareddy district, police said. According to the police official, the accident took place at around 8 pm on Tuesday night at Satwar X Road in Satwar village, under the Zaheerabad Police Station limits in Sangareddy district. The official added that the injured were shifted to Bidar Government Hospital for further treatment, while the bodies of the deceased were sent for post-mortem examination. “Six people lost their lives, and six others were injured after a road accident involving an auto-rickshaw and a truck in Satwar village under Zaheerabad Police Station limits in Sangareddy district. The injured were shifted to Bidar Hospital for further treatment,” a police official said.Police said further investigation into the accident is underway. Earlier, a 47-yearold retired Army jawan was killed, and two others were injured after an unidentified XUV allegedly rammed into three two-wheelers in the Hydershakote area of Rangareddy district in the early hours of Monday, police said. The accident took place at around 5:30 am near Hydershakote, which falls under the jurisdiction of Narsingi Police Station. According to a Narsingi police official, the XUV allegedly collided with three two-wheelers before fleeing the spot.”Today in the early morning hours around 5:30 AM, an XUV car rammed into three two-wheelers near Hydershakote. Two people were injured, and a retired Army jawan named Ravinder, aged 47, died. He was riding a bike. The car hit the vehicles and fled from the spot,” the police official said.The injured victims were immediately shifted to a nearby hospital for medical treatment. Their condition was not immediately available. Police said the deceased, identified as Ravinder, was riding his motorcycle when the vehicle allegedly struck him. (ANI)
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