In a strategic move, Odisha's Leader of Opposition Naveen Patnaik has formed a 50-member shadow cabinet to hold the ruling BJP accountable. The shadow cabinet, inspired by the UK model, comprises former ministers who will monitor each government department and prepare alternative policies. This move comes ahead of the state assembly's budget session, starting next Monday. Patnaik, former Chief Minister, aims to ensure the Opposition remains a strong voice for the people, keeping tabs on the government's actions and offering alternative solutions. This move signals Patnaik's intent to remain a significant force in Odisha's political landscape.

Mohan Bhagwat, Chief of Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), addressed a village-level workers meeting in Jharkhand's Gumla district. He emphasized the importance of continuous self-development and service to humanity. Bhagwat cautioned against aspiring to be "superhuman" and stressed the need for relentless work in areas like environment, education, and health. He expressed confidence in India's future, citing collective efforts towards its improvement. The meeting was organized by non-profit organization Vikas Bharti. Bhagwat's speech focused on the value of dedication to societal welfare and the pursuit of continuous growth. His remarks were made to a gathering of village-level workers.

Following the derailment of the Chandigarh-Dibrugarh Express in Uttar Pradesh, opposition parties have criticized the Modi government for rail safety failures. Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge demanded the swift installation of the Kavach anti-collision system across all rail routes. Citing previous accidents, Kharge accused the government of negligence. Trinamool Congress's Mamata Banerjee and Samajwadi Party's Akhilesh Yadav also called for accountability and improved passenger safety. CPI General Secretary D. Raja highlighted poor track maintenance and staff shortages, urging the government to address these issues urgently.

Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge criticized Prime Minister Narendra Modi over the Chandigarh-Dibrugarh Express derailment, attributing it to systemic failures in Indian Railways. Two fatalities and over 20 injuries were reported as eight coaches derailed near UP's Gonda. Kharge called for urgent installation of the Kavach anti-collision system nationwide. Rescue operations by NDRF teams are ongoing, with senior officials onsite. Kharge's remarks underscore growing concerns over rail safety following recent accidents under the Modi government.

Nobel Laureate Amartya Sen has praised Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, describing him as significantly matured in politics. In an interview with PTI, Sen recalled knowing Rahul as an articulate student at Cambridge, uncertain about his future. Sen highlighted Rahul's evolution, especially through the 'Bharat Jodo Yatra,' and noted his improved articulation in political matters. He emphasized Rahul's crucial role as the Leader of the Opposition, particularly in addressing inequality and sectarianism in India. Sen concluded that Rahul's leadership will be tested in how effectively he navigates these issues during the Modi-led NDA government.

Deputy Chief Minister Keshav Prasad Maurya responded to Akhilesh Yadav's claims of infighting within the BJP affecting Uttar Pradesh's administration. Yadav had accused the BJP of internal strife and poor governance. Maurya refuted these claims, asserting that the BJP has a strong organization and government both in the state and at the Centre. He dismissed Yadav's remarks, promising a BJP victory in the 2027 assembly elections. Maurya also labeled the Samajwadi Party’s PDA initiative as a “fraud” and assured that BJP’s administration remains stable and effective.

BRS leader K Kavitha, jailed in connection with the Delhi excise policy case, was rushed to Delhi's DDU Hospital on Tuesday evening. Kavitha, arrested by the Enforcement Directorate on March 15 and later by the CBI, is accused of being part of a group that gave ₹100 crore in kickbacks for a favorable liquor policy. The reason for her hospital visit is not yet clear. Kavitha, daughter of former Telangana chief minister K Chandrashekar Rao, has been in judicial custody and has sought bail, claiming the charges against her are incomplete.

In a shocking incident, Mukesh Sahani's father, Jitan Sahani, was found murdered in his Darbhanga residence. The VIP chief's father was killed in a gruesome manner, with his body recovered in a mutilated condition. The Darbhanga SP, Jagunath Reddy, confirmed the incident. A Special Investigation Team (SIT) has been formed to probe the case, comprising the SDPO and SHO. The motive behind the murder is yet to be ascertained. The incident has sent shockwaves in the political circles, with many leaders condoling the demise of Jitan Sahani.

In a shocking incident, Jitan Sahani, father of Vikassheel Insaan Party (VIP) chief Mukesh Sahani, was found murdered in his Darbhanga residence. The body was recovered in a mutilated condition. Darbhanga SP Jagunath Reddy confirmed the incident. An SIT has been formed to investigate the case, comprising the SDPO and SHO. Mukesh Sahani, who was in Mumbai, has rushed back to Darbhanga upon learning of his father's demise. The motive behind the murder is yet to be ascertained. The incident has sent shockwaves in the political circles of Bihar.

The BJP's strength in the Rajya Sabha decreased to 86 after four members—Sonal Mansingh, Mahesh Jethmalani, Rakesh Sinha, and Ram Shakal—completed their terms on July 13. Consequently, the NDA's tally stands at 101, falling short of the 113 majority mark in the 245-member House. The BJP expects to secure additional seats in upcoming elections in states like Bihar, Maharashtra, and Assam. Despite the vacancies, the party remains confident about winning new seats and maintaining its influence in the upper house.