A seven-year-old Labrador retriever named Mary played a pivotal role in helping Sambhal Police solve a child sexual assault case after investigators found no CCTV footage, eyewitnesses or immediate forensic leads. Using the scent from a scarf recovered near the crime scene, Mary traced a trail through narrow lanes and stopped outside the accused’s house, located less than 300 metres away. Although the suspect initially fled, police later tracked and arrested him. Investigators also conducted a scent identification parade, where Mary reportedly identified the accused again. The suspect was subsequently arrested and charged under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act. Police rewarded Mary with ₹10,000 for her contribution.

Commercial flight operations from Mundra Airport are set to strengthen regional connectivity and economic integration in western India. Announcing the development, Jeet Adani, Director of Adani Airport Holdings, said the launch of commercial services will significantly improve access to Mundra and enhance connectivity for passengers and businesses. The move is expected to provide better transportation links to the region, which is home to major industrial, logistics and port infrastructure. Improved air connectivity is likely to support trade, tourism and investment while offering faster travel options for residents and corporate travellers. The initiative marks an important milestone in Mundra’s infrastructure and connectivity growth.

A 19-year-old NEET aspirant was found dead at her home in Maharajganj, Uttar Pradesh, a day after appearing for the NEET re-examination. Police said a handwritten note was found on her question paper. In the note, she reportedly wrote, “I am not capable of anything.” Investigators believe she may have been upset about her expected exam performance. Her family said she dreamed of becoming a doctor and following her brother’s path. Police have sent the note for forensic and handwriting examination. The exact cause of death is under investigation, and the post-mortem report is awaited. (PC: HT)

A preliminary investigation into the deadly Lucknow building fire has found that the structure was using electricity far beyond its approved limit. Officials said the building had a sanctioned load of 20 kilowatts but was drawing over 34 kVA before the blaze. The fire killed 15 people, including students and professionals, in Aliganj's Sector D. Investigators are now examining whether earlier warnings about power overload were ignored. Authorities are also looking into safety approvals, electrical systems and emergency preparedness. The exact cause of the fire has not been confirmed. A detailed technical investigation is underway. (PC: PTI)

A devastating fire that killed 15 people in Lucknow's Aliganj area has drawn attention to the troubled history of the commercial building where the tragedy occurred. Official records show the property had faced demolition proceedings in 2016 over alleged unauthorised construction, with the Lucknow Development Authority initially issuing a demolition order before later withdrawing it. The building also changed ownership multiple times since its original allotment in 1980. Investigators are examining whether violations of building regulations and fire safety norms contributed to the scale of the disaster. Preliminary findings indicate the blaze may have started in an air-conditioning duct, while inadequate emergency exits and rapid smoke spread may have trapped victims inside.

At least 15 people, most of them students, were killed after a massive fire broke out in a commercial building housing a coaching centre in Lucknow's Aliganj area on Monday. Several students were trapped inside as thick smoke spread rapidly through the building, forcing some to jump from the first floor in a desperate attempt to escape. Rescue teams rushed to the spot and brought the blaze under control after an extensive operation. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath visited the site and ordered an investigation into the tragedy. The cause of the fire is being probed. (PC: NDTV)

The NEET 2026 re-test has triggered a nationwide debate after several students were denied entry for arriving minutes after the 1:30 pm gate-closing deadline. Videos from Madhya Pradesh, Telangana, Bengaluru and other cities showed students and parents pleading with officials after delays caused by rain, traffic, accidents and document issues. While the National Testing Agency enforced strict security measures following the paper leak controversy, many families questioned whether genuine late arrivals could have been accommodated. Supporters of the rules argued that uniform deadlines ensure fairness, while critics said students should lose time, not an entire year of preparation. (PC: India Today)

More than 20 lakh candidates appeared for the NEET UG 2026 re-examination, according to NTA Director General Abhishek Singh. He said the lower attendance compared to the original exam was expected. Many students had already explored other options, including engineering courses and different career paths. Singh said attendance patterns were largely similar across regions and centres. He also described the re-examination as smooth, secure and nearly error-free. The NTA worked with security and administrative agencies to prevent malpractice and ensure fairness. Final attendance figures will be released after all reports from examination centres are received.

The West Bengal government has announced a 20 percent increase in Dearness Allowance (DA) for state employees. The revised DA will come into effect from October 1, taking the total DA to 38 percent. Presenting the state budget, Finance Minister Swapan Dasgupta also announced recruitment for one lakh government jobs, with 33 percent reserved for women. The government will fill 20,000 vacancies in the state police force. Girl students in government and aided schools will receive a ₹50,000 scholarship. Other announcements include a new airport, a deep-sea port, women's welfare schemes and new educational institutions.

A tense standoff at a gurdwara in Rudraprayag, Uttarakhand, ended after seven Nihangs who had barricaded themselves on the rooftop agreed to come down following negotiations. The situation began after allegations that a gurdwara official had been held hostage, prompting police intervention. A delegation from Punjab held discussions with Uttarakhand Director General of Police Deepam Seth to defuse tensions. Authorities maintained heavy security around the shrine while talks continued. The crisis was resolved peacefully without injuries, with officials emphasizing dialogue and cooperation to maintain communal harmony and prevent further escalation. (PC: India Today)