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Neymar Magic Rescues Santos! Brazilian Star Scores Brace in Thrilling 2-2 Draw Against Chapecoense

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Neymar Magic Rescues Santos! Brazilian Star Scores Brace in Thrilling 2-2 Draw Against Chapecoense

SANTOS, BRAZIL — Superstar forward Neymar put on a dominant performance at the Urbano Caldeira Stadium, scoring both goals for Santos FC in a dramatic 2-2 draw against Chapecoense in Campeonato Brasileiro Série A.

The Brazilian maestro broke the deadlock in the 36th minute with a clinical finish to give Santos a 1-0 lead going into halftime. However, Chapecoense responded strongly after the break, equalizing through Marcinho in the 51st minute before an unfortunate own goal by João Ananias in the 62nd minute put the visitors ahead 2-1.

With time running out and Santos pushing for a comeback, Neymar stepped up under intense pressure to convert a clutch 89th-minute penalty kick. The brace capped off an outstanding individual effort, featuring 6 total shots (5 on target), 51 accurate passes, and a match-high rating of 8.55.

​”Symbolic Step, Battle Not Over”: Rahul Gandhi Reacts to Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan’s Resignation, Issues 2 Key Demands to PM Modi

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​”Symbolic Step, Battle Not Over”: Rahul Gandhi Reacts to Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan’s Resignation, Issues 2 Key Demands to PM Modi

NEW DELHI: Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, described the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan as a “huge symbolic step” toward rebuilding India’s education system, while maintaining that the students’ fight is far from over.

Reacting to Pradhan’s step-down following relentless nationwide student protests over paper leak allegations, Rahul Gandhi congratulated the youth and students who took to the streets to defend the country’s democratic values and constitution.
​”Dharmendra Pradhan’s resignation is a huge step in rebuilding our education system. It is a symbolic step because he was a symbol, but it is still a big step. Well done to every single student and youngster who came out on the streets and fought for democracy,” Gandhi stated in his video message.

Two Outstanding Demands for PM Modi
​Despite the resignation of the Education Minister, the Congress leader highlighted that two core demands remain non-negotiable and must be met by the central government:
​Accountability and Punishment for Violence Against Students: Full legal action and strict punishment against officials, organizers, and personnel who directed or participated in police crackdowns, lathi-charges, and violence against peacefully protesting students.
​Public Apology from Prime Minister Narendra Modi: An official, direct apology from PM Modi to the students and youth of the nation for the brutalization, distress, and institutional failures they endured.

​”Don’t Be Afraid”: A Message to Society
​Rahul Gandhi extended his message to farmers, laborers, and marginalized communities across the nation, stating that the student victory proves the power of peaceful, constitutional resistance.

Calling for a united effort to oppose government policies that harm public institutions, the Opposition leader remarked, “There is wisdom and courage in standing up. Don’t be afraid (‘Darumat’). The time has come to protect our Constitution and rebuild the country.”

Breaking News: Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan Resigns Amid Escalating Nationwide Student Protests

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Breaking News: Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan Resigns Amid Escalating Nationwide Student Protests

NEW DELHI: In a dramatic political development, Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan has submitted his resignation to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The announcement came via his official handle on X (formerly Twitter) just hours before a scheduled third round of talks between government representatives and student leaders.

Core Demand Met: The stepping down of Dharmendra Pradhan was the non-negotiable demand raised by student groups camping at Delhi’s Jantar Mantar for over a month following exam irregularities and paper leak allegations.
​Deadlock Broken: Talks between Union Ministers and representatives of the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) had previously hit an impasse, with student delegates refusing further discussions unless Pradhan resigned.
​Crucial Turning Point: The resignation arrives amid intense political pressure from opposition parties and continuous demonstrations across major university campuses.

​Background & Impact
​Protests had intensified across New Delhi and other parts of the country following widespread dissatisfaction over exam handling, NTA irregularities, and police action against demonstrators. While the Centre had initially signalled that the Minister’s resignation was not on the cards, the sheer scale of the agitation and deadlocked negotiations ultimately compelled the move.

Further announcements regarding an interim charge for the Ministry of Education and official acceptance from the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) are awaited.

“‘No Work, Only Pinarayi Influence’: Kartha’s Explosive ED Statement Reignites Exalogic Row

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“‘No Work, Only Pinarayi Influence’: Kartha’s Explosive ED Statement Reignites Exalogic Row

Thiruvananthapuram: A purportedly explosive statement by Sasidharan Kartha has surfaced, in which he told the Enforcement Directorate (ED) that Veena Vijayan’s company, Exalogic Solutions, did not provide any IT services to Cochin Minerals and Rutile Ltd. (CMRL), and that crores of rupees were paid solely because of Veena Vijayan’s personal proximity to and influence through the then Chief Minister, Pinarayi Vijayan.

Kartha reportedly gave this statement to the ED on April 24, 2024. Just two days later, on April 26, 2024, Kerala went to the polls for the Lok Sabha elections. The BJP opened its account in Kerala for the first time through Suresh Gopi’s victory from Thrissur. At the time, allegations had already been raised by political opponents that there was a “Pinarayi-Modi deal.” Critics now claim that the fact Kartha’s statement against the Pinarayi family remained undisclosed for so long is evidence of that alleged understanding.

Subsequently, the BJP went on to make significant political gains in the state while keeping Pinarayi Vijayan under intense political pressure. After opening its account in the Lok Sabha from Kerala, the BJP also secured three seats in the Assembly elections. On the other hand, the CPI(M) suffered a major setback. The party’s only Lok Sabha victory was K. Radhakrishnan’s seat, and in the Assembly elections, the Left Democratic Front led by Pinarayi Vijayan was reduced to 35 seats, ending up in the Opposition.

Kartha’s statement of April 24, 2024, has now surfaced at a time when Pinarayi Vijayan is said to be at his weakest politically. Political circles are speculating that Veena Vijayan could face arrest at any time. Kartha’s statement is also being viewed by critics as having drawn Pinarayi Vijayan into the investigation. There are indications, according to these reports, that the Enforcement Directorate may question Pinarayi Vijayan in the coming days based on Kartha’s statement. However, no official announcement has been made by the ED regarding any such action.

Skyrocketing Rent Spends: KIIFB Splurges Over ₹3 Crore Annually Across 4 Rented Spaces Including Kozhikode Apartment

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Skyrocketing Rent Spends: KIIFB Splurges Over ₹3 Crore Annually Across 4 Rented Spaces Including Kozhikode Apartment

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The Kerala Infrastructure Investment Fund Board (KIIFB) is facing public and administrative scrutiny following revelations in its 2024–25 Annual Report highlighting a steep surge in rental and operational expenses. According to the official report, KIIFB expended ₹3.05 crore solely on rent during the 2024–25 fiscal year, up significantly from ₹2.51 crore spent in 2023–24.

The board currently operates across four key leased locations in Kerala:
​Thiruvananthapuram: Commercial spaces in Felicity Square and Heather.
​Ernakulam: Leased office space at the KMRL Vadakkekotta facility.
​Kozhikode: A dedicated rented apartment for regional operations and accommodations.

The significant expenditure includes high base rents alongside heavy recurring utility charges (electricity, maintenance, and facility overheads).

NEET Row Escalates: Centre Agrees to Neutral Venue as CJP Demands Dharmendra Pradhan’s Resignation Ahead of 12:30 PM Talks

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NEET Row Escalates: Centre Agrees to Neutral Venue as CJP Demands Dharmendra Pradhan’s Resignation Ahead of 12:30 PM Talks

NEW DELHI: In a major breakthrough amid the ongoing nationwide agitation over the NEET paper leak controversy, a delegation of the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) is set to hold formal discussions with Union Ministers at the Constitution Club of India in New Delhi at 12:30 PM today.

The breakthrough comes after the Central government agreed to the protesters’ demand for a neutral venue. The high-stakes meeting follows climate activist and educator Sonam Wangchuk ending his 26-day hunger strike late Thursday night at Medanta Hospital in Gurugram, following assurances from Union Ministers J.P. Nadda and Jitendra Singh.
​Speaking on the upcoming dialogue, CJP chief spokesperson Saurav Das welcomed the government’s willingness to hold discussions at a neutral venue, stating that the organization hopes for an open-minded and fruitful dialogue. However, CJP leaders reiterated that their peaceful sit-in at Jantar Mantar will continue until their key demands are fulfilled.

According to CJP spokesperson Vaishnavi Gaur, the delegation will place four non-negotiable demands before the central representatives:
​Immediate Resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.
​Financial Compensation for families affected by the NEET irregularities and suicides.
​Unconditional Withdrawal of all FIRs registered against peaceful student protesters.
​Comprehensive Systemic Overhaul to prevent future examination leaks.

The agitation, which saw severe police crackdowns and internet shutdowns around Jantar Mantar earlier this week, has drawn widespread political support across Opposition parties and civil rights organizations. While Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently announced plans for strict legislation and Fast-Track Courts to penalize paper leak offenders, the CJP maintains that true accountability begins with Minister Pradhan’s removal from office.

Jana Nayagan Box Office Collection Day 1: Thalapathy Vijay’s Farewell Film Earns ₹78.27 Crore Worldwide

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Jana Nayagan Box Office Collection Day 1: Thalapathy Vijay’s Farewell Film Earns ₹78.27 Crore Worldwide

Chennai: Thalapathy Vijay’s highly anticipated final theatrical release, Jana Nayagan, made a roaring impact at the global box office on its opening day. Directed by H. Vinoth, the action political drama registered an estimated worldwide gross collection of ₹78.27 crore on Thursday.

Box Office Breakdown (Day 1)

Market SegmentDay 1 Figures
India Net Collection₹41.00 Crore
India Gross Collection₹48.27 Crore
Overseas Gross Collection₹30.00 Crore
Worldwide Gross Total₹78.27 Crore

Language-Wise Nett Breakup in India
​Tamil: ₹36.50 Crore
​Telugu: ₹2.75 Crore
​Hindi: ₹1.75 Crore

Key Domestic Market Performance
​Tamil Nadu: ₹24.00 Crore
​Karnataka: ₹11.25 Crore
​Kerala: ₹5.52 Crore
​Andhra Pradesh / Telangana: ₹4.00 Crore
​Rest of India: ₹3.50 Crore

Jana Nayagan features Vijay as Vetri Kondan, alongside an ensemble cast including Pooja Hegde, Mamitha Baiju, Gautham Vasudev Menon, and Bobby Deol. With intense fan frenzy and strong theatrical occupancies, trade analysts expect solid momentum across the opening weekend.

Relief for Welfare Pensioners in Kerala: Distribution Begins Tomorrow; ₹1095 Crore Sanctioned!

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Relief for Welfare Pensioners in Kerala: Distribution Begins Tomorrow; ₹1095 Crore Sanctioned!

Thiruvananthapuram: In a major relief to lakhs of beneficiaries across Kerala, the distribution of this month’s Social Security and Welfare Board pensions will begin tomorrow, July 24. Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan announced that a sum of ₹1,095 crore has been sanctioned for this purpose.

The pension amount will be credited directly to the beneficiaries’ bank accounts and delivered to homes through cooperative banks to ensure seamless coverage. The Chief Minister stated that despite financial constraints, the government remains committed to ensuring timely financial support for vulnerable sections of society.

Safe Rides at Night: KSRTC Rolls Out ‘Pink Bus’ Service for Women Commuters in Kerala

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Safe Rides at Night: KSRTC Rolls Out ‘Pink Bus’ Service for Women Commuters in Kerala

Thiruvananthapuram: In a major move to ensure the safety and convenience of women traveling at night, the Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) is officially launching its highly anticipated ‘Pink Bus’ service today.

The pilot phase of the project will commence in Thiruvananthapuram, addressing the longstanding travel woes of women who step out or return home after 9:00 PM. The initiative is primarily designed to aid female night-shift workers, particularly hospital staff and IT professionals working at Technopark, who often struggle to find safe and affordable public transport options late at night.

The state-level inauguration of the ‘Pink Bus’ service will be held today (July 23) at 1:00 PM at the Thiruvananthapuram Central Depot. The specially designated fast-link buses aim to provide a secure environment for women, putting an end to the reliance on overpriced private commute options during late hours.

While the service is currently being rolled out on an experimental basis in the capital city, KSRTC authorities have confirmed that this pro-public welfare initiative will soon be expanded to other major routes across the state based on the initial response.

Key Highlights of the Pink Bus Service:
​Target Commuters: Women traveling after 9:00 PM, late-night IT employees, and hospital staff.
​Inauguration: July 23, 1:00 PM at Thiruvananthapuram Central Depot.
​Future Scope: Planned expansion across other districts in Kerala shortly after the pilot run.

Three Paper Leaks in Five Years: How Recurring NEET-UG Scandals Shattered the Dreams of Millions

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Three Paper Leaks in Five Years: How Recurring NEET-UG Scandals Shattered the Dreams of Millions

NEW DELHI — Over the last five years, the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET-UG)—India’s single gateway to undergraduate medical admissions—has been rocked by repeated allegations of paper leaks and examination fraud. These scandals have triggered nationwide student demonstrations, political debates, and Supreme Court interventions.

Here is a detailed breakdown of the three major NEET-UG paper leak instances recorded over the past five years:

  1. NEET-UG 2021: The Solver Gangs & Invigilator Leak Racket
    ​The Incident: On September 12, 2021, while over 16 lakh students appeared for the exam, local police forces in Jaipur (Rajasthan) and Varanasi (Uttar Pradesh) unraveled a coordinated cheating syndicate.
    ​Modus Operandi: Photos of question papers were snapped inside exam centers by compromised invigilators immediately after the test began. The images were sent via WhatsApp to “solver gangs” operating in coaching hubs, who solved the papers and transmitted answers back to select candidates using Bluetooth earpieces and proxy candidates.
    ​Outcome: Police arrested several key operatives, impersonators, and candidates across multiple states. While local FIRs were filed and candidates debarred, a nationwide re-examination was not conducted.

​2. NEET-UG 2024: The Oasis School Theft & Patna Racket
​The Incident: The May 2024 examination, taken by over 24 lakh aspirants, escalated into a massive national scandal after reports emerged that question papers were leaked hours before the examination in Bihar and Jharkhand.
​Modus Operandi: Investigations revealed that paper envelopes were tampered with at Oasis School in Hazaribagh (Jharkhand). Solved copies were provided to a selected group of candidates gathered at a play school in Patna, Bihar, where they memorized answers overnight. Burnt test papers were later recovered by the Bihar Police’s Economic Offences Unit (EOU).
​Outcome: The Supreme Court ordered a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe, leading to arrests across multiple states. While the court declined a full re-test due to a lack of evidence of a systemic breach across all centers, a re-test was conducted for specific affected candidate groups.

​3. NEET-UG 2026: The Digital Leak & Official Cancellation
​The Incident: The NEET-UG exam held on May 3, 2026, for 22.7 lakh candidates was compromised following intelligence indicating that question papers and precise “guess papers” were leaked digitally prior to the test.
​Modus Operandi: The Special Operations Group (SOG) traced the origin of the leak to a printing facility in Jaipur and network hubs in Nashik and Sikar. Papers were circulated digitally across messaging channels for large sums, leading to direct overlaps between leaked materials and the official exam paper.
​Outcome: In a historic move, the National Testing Agency (NTA) officially voided the exam and announced a complete nationwide re-examination under CBI oversight.

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