Telangana Congress leader Konda Surekha was dropped from the Council of Ministers after her daughter criticized Chief Minister Revanth Reddy, despite Surekha's attempts to distance herself and reach out to the party high command. She accused the move of being a grudge settlement, claiming she had not personally criticized the party or chief minister. Her explanation failed to satisfy the disciplinary panel, leading to her immediate removal on Thursday.

Devendra Fadnavis, Maharashtra Chief Minister, questioned Rahul Gandhi over the Congress party's stance on women's reservation at a BJP meeting in Pune. Citing Priyanka Gandhi’s lack of prominent roles despite her position as AICC general secretary and MP from Wayanad, Fadnavis accused the Congress of double standards. He highlighted that while they supported a 2023 bill for 33% women's reservation linked to delimitation, they now oppose it. Fadnavis warned Rahul Gandhi would be responsible if implementation is delayed beyond 2029. This comes as the Congress reaches out to women and students ahead of upcoming elections in Uttar Pradesh and Punjab.

On August 30, 2026, an FIR was registered against Rahul Gandhi in Haldwani following a complaint by Amit Kumar of the Valmiki community. Kumar alleged that Gandhi's remarks at a press conference on August 29 promoted enmity and hurt religious sentiments under provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and SC/ST Act, 1989. The incident stemmed from a "purification yajna" conducted after Mallikarjun Kharge's rally on August 8. Congress leaders criticized the BJP for filing an FIR against Gandhi while not acting against those who performed the ritual.

The BJP uses pop-culture references and Gen-Z slang, including memes featuring Motu-Patlu, Spider-Man, and AI-generated cartoon strips mocking Rahul Gandhi, to connect with younger Indians. They also deploy vertical Instagram videos and clips from PM Modi's speeches. The party recently appointed Deepak Mhaske as its social media head, shifting focus to Instagram reels. This strategy contrasts with the Congress's youth-focused 'Chhatron ki Goonj' events led by Rahul Gandhi.

Kiren Rijiju alleged on Wednesday that Pawan Khera, who was elected unopposed to the Rajya Sabha from Karnataka in June, received his seat as a "prize" for making false allegations against Himanta Biswa Sarma and his wife during Assam's election campaign. The spat began over a swimming video posted by Rijiju, leading Khera to face legal action for his claims.

At a Parliamentary Standing Committee on Home Affairs meeting on July 20, Congress members Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and Ajay Maken demanded discussion of the police crackdown during youth protests. BJP chairman Radha Mohan Das Agrawal refused, citing a Supreme Court committee and the set agenda on child crime. Opposition MPs highlighted injuries to minors from lathi charges. A heated exchange followed before Agrawal intervened, stating the matter was sub judice in the Supreme Court. The Supreme Court had already formed a five-member panel to examine allegations of excessive force by police against protesters.

On November 7, 2025, PM Narendra Modi launched a year-long commemoration of the song Vande Mataram's 150th anniversary. In December, both Houses held special discussions on it, scrutinizing the 1937 Congress decision to sing only the first two stanzas due to religious sensitivities. The BJP-led government moved forward with all six stanzas and amended laws in July to criminalize disruption of its singing, while the Congress reaffirmed their stance from 1937 on December 2025.

On Friday, Rahul Gandhi and his sister Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, along with others from the Congress party, staged a seven-hour sit-in at Delhi's Parliament Street Police Station demanding an FIR be registered for Sahil Lochab, who suffered pellet-gun injuries during protests. While Rahul adopted an aggressive stance, Priyanka took a diplomatic approach, eventually leading to the FIR being filed around 7 pm. The Congress claimed victory in bolstering students' rights, while the BJP criticized their actions.

On Friday, Rahul Gandhi staged a 7-hour sit-in outside the Parliament Street police station demanding an FIR for Sahil Lochab, a student injured by pellets during a July 20 protest. Delhi Police registered the FIR after prolonged delays; Gandhi criticized these delays and alleged higher-level interference in justice delivery. This marks the beginning of justice for Lochab, who lost one eye due to pellet injuries.

On August 21, 2026, Rahul Gandhi, Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha, staged a dharna outside the Parliament Street Police Station in New Delhi with Sahil Lochab, demanding registration of an FIR for pellet injuries Lochab suffered during a July protest. Despite visiting Mandir Marg police station earlier and submitting complaints, no I/O number or acknowledgement was provided by the Delhi Police. Gandhi accused the police of not registering the case as a cognizable offense, while Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra also joined the protest.

On August 21, Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi, along with pellet gun victim Sahil Lochab, protested inside the Parliament Street police station in New Delhi demanding an FIR registration over injuries from a July 20 protest. Deputy Commissioner of Police Sachin Sharma said proceedings were ongoing but denied immediate FIR registration. RAF was deployed around the station amid tensions.

Rahul Gandhi, protesting against the Delhi Police's refusal to file an FIR for a pellet gun victim from student protests, staged a dharna outside a police station at Parliament Street. The police cited a Supreme Court committee reviewing use of force during protests. Gandhi demanded justice and insisted on registering an FIR, which he claims is necessary due to severe injuries sustained by the victim, Sahil Lochab. BJP MP Ravi Shankar Prasad accused Gandhi of engaging in "politics of anarchy."

On Friday, Rahul Gandhi staged a sit-in outside the Parliament Street Police Station with Sahil Lochab, who was allegedly injured by pellet guns during July protests. Gandhi demanded an FIR be registered over alleged use of pellet guns but police refused. He continued his protest until an FIR was registered, which did not happen immediately.

The song Vande Mataram, a divisive symbol in India, saw renewed controversy when the NDA government led by PM Narendra Modi passed "The Prevention of Insults to National Honour (Amendment) Act, 2026," mandating respect for its full version. The Congress party, opposing this move, demonstrated discomfort during an August 15 event and later decided to play only two stanzas at future events, sparking a political debate over Hindu-Muslim relations.

On August 20, 2026, Rahul Gandhi paid an emotional tribute to his parents on his father Rajiv’s birth anniversary, recalling the courage of his mother Sonia Gandhi, whose memoir Belonging: A Journey of Love is due for release in November. He also addressed students' growing political assertion and criticized Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the BJP-RSS for suppressing dissent and marginalizing minorities.

Rahul Gandhi, addressing his mother Sonia Gandhi, recalled seeing her and his father Rajiv Gandhi together over 35 years ago. He praised Sonia's courage and dignity since Rajiv’s death, expressing pride in her upcoming memoir "Belonging: A Journey of Love," to be published on November 10 by Alfred A Knopf. The book details her life from Italy to India, including personal losses that shaped her role as Congress president.

At a reception for MP Supriya Sule's daughter in Delhi on Monday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi greeted Rahul Gandhi, who accepted his handshake. Modi then exchanged pleasantries with Priyanka Gandhi, while Mallikarjun Kharge joked about Modi changing, leading to light-hearted exchanges and low-fives between them. The event also saw Union ministers like Amit Shah and Congress leaders including Sonia Gandhi in attendance, sharing tables and engaging in conversations amidst the celebration for newlyweds Revati Sule and Sarang Lakhani.

At Supriya Sule's daughter Revati Sule's wedding reception in Delhi on Monday, leaders from rival political factions including Amit Shah, Rahul Gandhi, and Narendra Modi gathered. The event featured interactions between opposing party members like Sonia Gandhi and Sharad Pawar, highlighting a rare moment of unity.

Opposition leaders, including Rahul Gandhi, demand that Home Minister Amit Shah explain Delhi police actions against student protesters in Parliament. Ruling party MPs accuse Gandhi of double standards over similar protests in Jharkhand. Protests disrupt proceedings; the Lok Sabha remains adjourned amid continued disruptions and non-productive days.

The monsoon session deadlock continues after 16 days of uproar over police action against student protesters. The government agreed to discuss the issue if the Opposition listens to Home Minister Amit Shah. The Congress rejected a Joint Parliamentary Committee for the FCRA bill, while the DMK opposes both the FCRA and Delimitation bills. Government sources suggest possible concessions to secure support from parties like the DMK, with speculation about a special session if the deadlock persists.

On August 7, 2026, Captain Amarinder Singh said he would always maintain personal ties with Rahul Gandhi, despite joining the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in 2022 after leaving the Indian National Congress. The previous day, Rahul Gandhi named Captain Amarinder as his favorite BJP leader during an Instagram session. Capt. Amarinder had previously criticized the BJP's rigidity and left the Congress due to internal conflicts.

Rahul Gandhi named Capt Amarinder Singh, a former Punjab chief minister and now BJP leader, as his favorite politician from the BJP in an Instagram video. Capt Amarinder appreciated the gesture but maintained his political commitment to the BJP despite personal relations with Rahul and Sonia Gandhi. Pritpal Singh Baliawal of the Punjab BJP criticized this outreach, linking it to Congress infighting. Rana Gurjit Singh acknowledged their family ties while expressing regret over Amarinder's departure from the Congress in 2021 due to internal disputes.

KC Venugopal, a Congress MP, laughed off Kiren Rijiju's claim that the Opposition would struggle to digest the Home Minister’s reply in Parliament. Venugopal criticized Amit Shah for avoiding questions on police crackdowns during protests over examination irregularities. The Opposition demands Shah explain alleged use of pellet guns and AK-47s, accusing him of fear. Amid rain, MPs protested with slogans like "Amit Shah jawab do." Rijiju denied any direction from the Chair to Shah to appear.

Hundreds of Telangana Rakshana Sena (TRS) members gathered at Hyderabad's Saroor Nagar indoor stadium on Thursday for the Social Justice Telangana Sankalp Sabha, organized by party president K. Kavitha. Launched in April after splitting from Bharat Rashtra Samithi and receiving Election Commission approval, TRS focuses on empowering Backward Classes, Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, minorities, and marginalized groups. Kavitha emphasized social justice and representation at the meeting, highlighting her party's vision for greater equality following Telangana's creation.

On August 5, 2026, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju met with Rahul Gandhi, Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, to discuss the proposed delimitation Bill and FCRA Bill. They did not agree on convening additional sessions or extending the current Monsoon Session scheduled to end August 13. The Congress insisted on discussing other issues before proceeding.

On August 5, 2026, Opposition MPs staged protests in the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha of India's Parliament demanding statements on police excesses against students and Ram temple donations. The Lok Sabha passed the Bankers' Books Evidence Bill without discussion amid protests, while the Rajya Sabha discussed and cleared the Supreme Court (Number of Judges) Amendment Bill despite noisy opposition protests.

On Wednesday, the Lok Sabha is scheduled to consider and pass The Bankers' Books Evidence Bill, 2026 and The Taxation and Other Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2026. NK Premachandran and Sougata Ray moved a resolution seeking disapproval of the Income-tax Amendment Ordinance, 2026. Congress leaders protested for restoring J&K's statehood outside Parliament. Rahul Gandhi met with Union Minister Kiren Rijiju over parliamentary deadlock. Sanjay Singh from AAP submitted a notice in Rajya Sabha against mandatory E20 petrol implementation. Manish Tewari sought to discuss a new anti-defection law. The Lok Sabha adjourned till 2 PM.

On Tuesday, August 4, 2026, a Congress social media post calling Sunetra Pawar, the NCP president and Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister, a “gungi gudiya” (dumb doll) ignited a political controversy. The NCP demanded an apology from Sonia Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, questioning their stance on the sexist comment. This term was previously used to mock former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi.

At a press conference in Bengaluru, R. Ashok, BJP's Leader of the Opposition, criticized Congress for pre-announcing names for Constitutional posts and demanded an apology, alleging it insults the Constitution. He also accused Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar’s Cabinet of including corrupt officials like B. Nagendra and failing to include any women ministers, questioning the Chief Minister’s authority. Published August 4, 2026.

Independent MP Pappu Yadav alleged a conspiracy to kill him after two men entered his home, leading to security concerns and chaotic scenes. One man, Happy Sharna, denied attacking Yadav, claiming they were assaulted for criticizing Yadav's controversial skit on the Ram Temple offerings theft case. Sharna said he and a friend went to discuss Yadav’s comments but faced assault instead. Yadav insisted a conspiracy was being hatched against him and sought security from the Lok Sabha Speaker, who must approve any police case filed against an MP.

Opposition MPs, including Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and leaders from SP, TMC, JMM, and RSP, protested in the Parliament House complex on Monday against alleged theft of Ram temple donations and "police excesses." They used donation boxes and slogans targeting Amit Shah's absence. The protest aimed to corner the government over these issues, sparking controversy with Hindu groups calling it an insult to Sanatan dharma.

On August 2, 2026, Sumit from Uttar Pradesh’s Bulandshahr hurled a slipper at Independent MP Pappu Yadav during a press conference at his residence. Supporters overpowered Sumit, who was later arrested by the police. The incident followed Yadav's skit on Ram Temple donation theft allegations and provoked criticism of Delhi police for inadequate security. Opposition leaders blamed the BJP government for failing to protect opposition MPs.

Bihar's Independent MP Pappu Yadav was attacked with a shoe at a press conference in Delhi today; the attacker, Sumit from Bulandshahr, also carried a knife. Yadav said he received death threats over his protest in saffron robes earlier this week, which had angered sadhus and right-wing supporters. The protest involved a skit on alleged misappropriation of donations to Ayodhya's Ram Temple. Sources indicated Sumit held a grudge over the perceived insult to sadhus during Yadav’s protest.

On July 30, 2026, Opposition MPs staged a protest at the Makar Dwar of Parliament over alleged police excesses against protesting students and irregularities in Ram temple donations. Participants included K C Venugopal, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, Dharmendra Yadav, Sagarika Ghose, and Mahua Maji. They raised slogans demanding explanations for the use of force and displayed a donation box to highlight their allegations. Ms. Vadra engaged in an exchange with suspended Trinamool Congress MP Kalyan Banerjee over his poster accusing 20 TMC MPs of being traitors. The protest aimed to press for answers on both issues, finishing with a complete sentence.

More than 200 academicians, including vice-chancellors and former vice-chancellors, wrote to Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra objecting to her "gaumutra expert" remark about IIT Madras Director VK Kamakoti, a member of the NEET paper leak task force. The letter called for respectful discourse and engagement with scholars' views objectively. Amidst this, Gandhi Vadra criticized Prime Minister Narendra Modi's advisors and demanded concrete steps in education reform.

Priyanka Gandhi Vadra called IIT Madras Director Kamakoti, a member of the exam reforms task force, a "gaumutra expert" during her speech on Tuesday. Over 200 academics condemned her remarks as dismissive and undermining scientific temper. Kamakoti holds MS and PhD degrees from IIT Madras and has published over 150 research papers.

On Thursday, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra met Kalyan Banerjee, a Trinamool Congress MP protesting outside Parliament over 20 rebel MPs who joined the BJP-led NDA. Banerjee accused these MPs of being traitors and highlighted their previous switches between parties. Priyanka noted some were former Congress members, while Banerjee countered that they had won on Trinamool tickets. This interaction underscores shifting political alliances in India.

On Thursday, the Lok Sabha proceedings were adjourned till 2 pm amid Opposition slogan-shouting over various issues. Speaker Om Birla urged members to continue Question Hour but faced an unbudging Opposition. In Rajya Sabha, Opposition staged a walkout; Leader of the House JP Nadda said they had no agenda. Meanwhile, Rajya Sabha passed a bill making insults to 'Vande Mataram' criminal offenses. Lok Sabha approved amendments to the anti-paper leak law with stricter punishments. MPs protested against police actions and temple donation theft outside Parliament.

At the Parliament complex, Priyanka Gandhi questioned Trinamool MP Kalyan Banerjee about a poster of "20 traitors," referring to rebel MPs who defected from Mamata Banerjee's party and joined the NCPI. The meeting involved discussions on defection cases and past political alliances. Priyanka highlighted that these MPs originally won under Congress tickets, while Banerjee defended his loyalty shifts.

The 12th Malabar River Festival, Asia’s premier white-water kayaking event, begins on July 30, 2026, in Kozhikode district along the Chalipuzha and Iruvanjipuzha rivers. Thiruvambadyi MLA C.K. Kasim chaired final preparations, while District Collector M.S. Madhavikkutty inspected venues. Over 100 paddlers from nations like New Zealand, Italy, Russia, Malaysia, Nepal, the Czech Republic, and Indian states will compete in Kayak Slalom, Boater Cross, and Downriver Race events over four days. The festival includes a National Kayakers’ Ranking Championship and cultural activities, with safety measures managed by Adventure Sports Systems and Timing and local authorities.
On Wednesday, N. Ramchander Rao, BJP Telangana president, demanded that the Congress apologise for its role in the Telangana movement and failing to fulfil promises made to youth. He accused Congress of spreading lies about Delhi protests and linked it to student deaths during the Telangana movement, citing over 1,400 lives lost. Rao criticized Congress leaders for their attacks on BJP and alleged failures in implementing promises under 'Youth Declaration'. He will visit the United States from July 30 to August 6 for the ATA Conference.
Sources said Kiren Rijiju met Congress leaders in the presence of Speaker Om Birla after Rahul Gandhi accused Home Minister Amit Shah of ordering firing on protesters. Rijiju insisted on an apology, but Congress did not comply. The Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Amendment Bill, 2026, was passed by a voice vote amid protests.

Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra criticized the National Testing Agency reforms task force, led by Nandan Nilekani, for including an unnamed "cow urine expert," believed to be IIT Madras Director Professor V Kamakoti. Kamakoti previously endorsed cow urine's medicinal properties at a 2025 Pongal event in Madras, sparking controversy over the credibility of task force members tasked with reforming India’s exam system.

On Tuesday, Priyanka Gandhi, a Congress MP, criticized the Central government's new task force for education reforms in Parliament, calling IIT Madras Director V Kamakoti a "cow urine expert" due to his past remarks supporting its medicinal benefits. She questioned the committee’s competence and implementation of recommendations, referencing the unfulfilled Radhakrishna Committee’s proposals. This led to reactions from Karti P Chidambaram and Tamil Nadu BJP President K Annamalai defending Kamakoti's stance.

Kiren Rijiju criticised opposition parties for "politicising" the debate on competitive examinations paper leaks after Parliament adjourned at midnight. Speaking to reporters, he said NDA MPs constructively addressed the bill while Congress focused on political matters. The debate centered on 'The Public Examination (Prevention of Unfair Means) Amendment Bill - 2026'.

Mustafa Plumber reported that the Karnataka High Court stayed investigations into a criminal case against Bengaluru doctor Dr. Nagendrappa, arrested for assault after alerting authorities about illegal residency; Justice M. Nagaprasanna criticized police action as potential abuse of process. Meanwhile, Assam’s Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced relief packages for flood victims: families of the 75 deceased will receive Rs 9 lakh, and over one lakh affected families will get Rs 15,000 in cash.

Over the past year, Mathura district in Uttar Pradesh has become a major cybercrime hub, with 177 cases registered and 312 arrests made. On July 7, police arrested 42 adults as part of an operation that identified over 7,000 mobile numbers and 1,400 bank accounts linked to the criminal network operating from local villages.

During the Lok Sabha debate on the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Amendment Bill, 2026, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra sharply criticized the Narendra Modi government over police crackdowns on student protesters. She accused them of using excessive force and demanded accountability from Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah. Union minister Jitendra Singh defended the bill as necessary to protect students, citing past paper leaks under previous governments. The debate highlighted opposition concerns about alleged corruption and misuse of power in educational institutions.

Congress MP Shashi Tharoor argued in the Lok Sabha on Tuesday for overhauling India's examination system during a debate on the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Amendment Bill, 2026. He stressed that students carry their families' hopes and years of hard work into exams, making paper leaks devastating. Tharoor called for preventing such incidents rather than punishing them after they occur, suggesting continuous computer-based testing to reduce stress and accommodate emergencies. He highlighted the rise in student suicides linked to high-stakes exams.

In Parliament, Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra criticized a member of the education reform panel as a "cow urine expert," targeting IIT Madras Director Prof V Kamakoti, known for advocating cow urine's medicinal properties. BJP MP Anurag Thakur defended Prof Kamakoti and accused Gandhi of insulting him during the debate on examination reforms, sparking a new political controversy.

On July 20, Priyanka Gandhi questioned the use of pellet guns and other force against student protesters in Delhi during a parliamentary discussion. She asked who ordered the violence, challenging Home Minister, PM, and Speaker to respond. Protesters demanded Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation over exam irregularities; he resigned amid widespread protests. Gandhi criticized ruling MPs for cheering Pradhan post-resignation.

Rahul Gandhi expressed "amazement" at Pralhad Joshi being appointed as Education Minister after Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation, criticizing Joshi for previously defending the early release of 11 men who raped Bilkis Bano and killed her family. The Supreme Court later cancelled this release in 2024, stating the remission order lacked competence. Gandhi called Joshi "an insult to our education system."

Dharmendra Pradhan, who resigned as Education Minister after a 37-day student protest over the NEET paper leak, was greeted with garlands and slogans like "zindabad" when he returned to Parliament on Monday. Congress MP Gaurav Gogoi criticized this reception, comparing it to welcoming someone back from war. Priyanka Gandhi also condemned the celebration as shameful. The protests were called off after Pradhan's resignation following 21 student suicides linked to exam stress.

On Tuesday, July 28, 2026, the Lok Sabha began a six-hour debate on the Public Examination (Prevention of Unfair Means) Amendment Bill, 2026, with Union Minister Jitendra Singh emphasizing its importance for student welfare. The Opposition, seeking an apology from Amit Shah over police actions against protesters, demanded eight hours for discussion; the government offered up to ten hours. Meanwhile, the Rajya Sabha adjourned after introducing another bill and not addressing a third amendment bill related to national honor.

On July 27, 2026, Jitendra Singh, Minister of State for PMO, introduced the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Amendment Bill, 2026 in the Lok Sabha to increase penalties for paper leaks to up to 10 years and Rs 50 lakh fines. The bill came amid protests over NEET-UG paper leaks and police actions against students during a protest march led by Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) on July 20, which forced Dharmendra Pradhan to resign as education minister. Opposition parties demanded responses from the government regarding the police crackdown and disrupted proceedings.

Former Punjab Chief Minister Charanjit Singh Channi was left red-faced when memes circulated after he lingered around while Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra chatted with KC Venugopal, ignoring him. This happened days after Channi's public disagreement with Rahul over Punjab leadership decisions. An embarrassed Channi later complained to senior Congress leader Bhupesh Baghel about the mocking memes.

On July 6, Elathur MLA Vidya Balakrishnan received a call offering her a Cabinet Minister’s post for ₹3 crore; she reported it to the Cyber police on July 11 after verifying with Priyanka Gandhi Vadra's office. The police arrested Gourav and Nitin Kumar in New Delhi, revealing the fraud targeted other MPs and MLAs. Investigation tracked the SIM card owner before arrests.

Pralhad Joshi, appointed Education Minister after Dharmendra Pradhan resigned, addressed concerns over the NEET paper leak and protests by stating that 14 people were arrested. He highlighted amendments to the Public Examinations Bill for stricter penalties on leaks and confirmed talks with the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) as per PM Modi's directive. The CJP ended their nearly 36-day protest after meeting demands, including Pradhan’s resignation.

On July 25, 2026, Rahul Gandhi, Leader of the Opposition in Lok Sabha, termed Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation as Union Education Minister following student protests over NEET paper leaks a "victory for youth." He urged others to stand against the government and called for its removal. Other opposition leaders welcomed the move, demanding comprehensive education reforms and criticizing the government's handling of protests.
On July 25, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, general secretary of the All India Congress Committee and MP for Wayanad, is set to visit Kalladi in Kerala to review relief operations following a debris slip that killed eight people and injured nine others on July 7. She will meet victims at Dr. Moopen’s Medical College and felicitate search teams, despite criticism from opponents like CPI(M) and BJP over her delayed response. Her visit aims to support recovery efforts without disrupting earlier rescue activities.

On Thursday, the Centre renewed outreach to protesters and the Opposition over the NEET-UG paper leak, demanding Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan’s resignation. Jitendra Singh, a Union Minister, invited the CJP for talks but was met with conditions by Saurav Das, CJP spokesperson, insisting on neutral venues. Parliament proceedings were disrupted for four days amid protests and counter-protests. The Opposition intensified demands while the government sought discussions without preconditions.

On January 23, Rahul Gandhi and INDIA bloc MPs protested at Gandhi Smriti over the NEET paper leak, holding mobile flashlights as a vigil for injured students and those who died. Initially planning to visit India Gate, they were denied by police and faced barricades outside Gandhi's house before proceeding to Gandhi Smriti. The protest aimed to demand justice and accountability from the government.

On Thursday, Congress MP Shashi Tharoor invoked Punjabi and Urdu poet Munir Niazi to criticize Prime Minister Narendra Modi, after the latter announced fast-track courts for NEET paper leak cases. Quoting a well-known couplet from Niazi’s poem “Hamesha Der Kar Deta Hoon Main,” Tharoor highlighted delays in addressing important issues, amid nationwide protests demanding resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan and greater examination accountability.

On July 23, NDA and opposition MPs protested at Makar Dwar inside Parliament over NEET paper leaks. NDA MPs condemned a Congress sit-in near Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s residence on exam leaks, while opposition demanded Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation. Clashes included an attempt by Shiv Sena (Eknath Shinde faction) and NDA MPs to snatch placards from opposition members. PM Modi vowed fast-track courts for those involved in leaks.

In June, the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) protest emerged independently, focusing on issues like examination leaks and unemployment. By July 22, tens of thousands protested in Delhi; Prime Minister Narendra Modi promised action against exam malpractice, while Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan offered reforms. The Opposition's delayed involvement highlights their credibility gap with voters.

On Thursday, MPs from the ruling NDA and opposition INDIA bloc staged counter protests outside and inside Parliament over the NEET paper leak issue. Ruling party MPs accused the Opposition of politicizing it, while opposition leaders like Sonia Gandhi demanded Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation. Congress MP Manish Tewari sought a discussion on the Anti-Defection Law in Rajya Sabha.

On Tuesday, Opposition leaders including Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra were detained during a protest outside Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s residence. Released later at Chhatrasal Stadium, they were treated with snacks by Delhi Congress chief Devender Yadav. Meanwhile, the NIOS, an autonomous institution under the Ministry of Education, approved spending Rs 92 lakh to install 86 CCTV cameras at its headquarters in Noida for surveillance purposes.

At Jantar Mantar, Umasa, a 13-year-old from Delhi, joined protests demanding accountability for leaked exam papers and the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. Clashes on Monday injured protesters and police; Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra also protested outside Prime Minister Modi's house, leading to their detention.

On Wednesday, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath accused the Congress and Samajwadi Party of wanting to create anarchy with foreign funding amid protests over exam paper leaks. This followed a sit-in protest led by Rahul Gandhi, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, and Akhilesh Yadav outside Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s residence in Delhi, which was forcibly dispersed by police on Monday. BJP and Congress held separate protests in Lucknow, accusing each other of anti-national activities.

Vijay, supporting Rahul Gandhi's NEET protest in Delhi, condemned police action against Congress leaders but opposed the NEET exam itself. TVK demanded NEET's complete abolition and more state power in education. Rahul Gandhi was detained with other leaders outside PM Modi’s house; he later listed five demands including Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation.

On Wednesday, a protest march organized by the Youth Congress and Kerala Students Union (KSU) to the Head Post Office in Palakkad against alleged police action against Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi turned tense. Activists attempted to breach barricades after sitting on the road, blocking vehicles; police used water cannons before removing activists forcibly. KPCC general secretary C. Chandran inaugurated the march, which condemned the Delhi Police's actions during a demonstration demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over alleged NEET irregularities.
As the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) protests at Jantar Mantar for the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over the 2026 NEET exam leak, actors like Naseeruddin Shah and Shabana Azmi support students. Zoho founder Sridhar Vembu claims the protests are politically orchestrated to create chaos, while columnist S Gurumurthy alleges they gained momentum post-Parliament convening. Rahul Gandhi and other Congress leaders protested outside PM Modi’s residence demanding his resignation along with Amit Shah's over Delhi Police action against a Parliament march by CJP.

The article discusses a youth movement in Delhi protesting against examination irregularities, which has mobilized new publics and energized the political arena. Rahul Gandhi and other opposition leaders supported the students by demanding parliamentary debate and ministerial accountability, while facing repression from the BJP government. The protests have connected immediate concerns with wider democratic grievances, emphasizing institutional failure and electoral accountability.

On July 21, 2026, Rahul Gandhi was arrested outside the Prime Minister’s residence in Delhi while protesting against alleged irregularities in the NEET exam and demanding Narendra Modi's resignation. The next day, Pinarayi Vijayan, Leader of the Opposition in Kerala, condemned the arrest on Facebook, stating that the protest is gaining public support despite government suppression. Thousands gathered at Jantar Mantar, leading to clashes with police.
A. Revanth Reddy, Telangana's Chief Minister, criticized the BJP government for suppressing democratic dissent during a protest against NEET examination irregularities. He accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan of failing to protect students' interests and demanded Mr. Pradhan’s resignation. Protests led by Congress cadre across Telangana continued, with leaders staging dharnas in Hyderabad, Hanamkonda, Sangareddy, and Husnabad. The protests aimed to hold the government accountable for NEET paper leak allegations and Rahul Gandhi's arrest.

Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) students are protesting against the alleged NEET paper leak, demanding Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation. The Congress and BJP have launched counter-protests: Congress protests nationwide over Rahul Gandhi’s detention and police action against CJP activists; BJP protests outside Congress offices nationwide. Talks between protesters and government are proposed at a neutral venue or Jantar Mantar.

On July 21, 2026, INDIA bloc parties met to support students protesting exam leaks, deciding to act beyond Parliament. While no specific plan was agreed upon, Rahul Gandhi, Akhilesh Yadav, and others visited injured students, criticized the government’s response, and marched to Prime Minister's residence, leading to detentions. Congress invited other parties late, causing some disappointment but garnering support from leaders like Supriya Sule and Udhav Thackeray at Jantar Mantar.

Rajeev Chandrasekhar, BJP Kerala president, stated on X that peaceful protests are a democratic right but condemned violence and anarchy. His comments followed the detention of Opposition leaders including Congress MP Rahul Gandhi and others after they staged a protest demanding Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s resignation outside his residence in New Delhi. Published July 22, 2026.
Sonam Wangchuk, a climate activist, protested against Dharmendra Pradhan, the Union Education Minister, over alleged irregularities in NEET. Two union ministers met Wangchuk at Medanta Hospital after Jitendra Singh met Rahul Gandhi, who was protesting outside Prime Minister’s residence with other Congress leaders and youths across states demanding Pradhan's resignation. The government signaled readiness for debate but refused to succumb to demands for his resignation.

On July 21, 2026, Kerala Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan protested against the Delhi Police's actions against elected representatives, including Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, during a protest against alleged student crackdowns in Delhi. He termed the police action undemocratic and warned that fear tactics would not succeed in a democracy.

The Prevention of Insults to National Honour (Amendment) Bill, 2026, which aims to grant Vande Mataram statutory protection similar to that of the national anthem Jana Gana Mana, is up for debate in the Rajya Sabha. This follows Supreme Court debates on its status and comes amid protests over exam paper leaks, with opposition parties demanding resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. Police used force against protesters, leading to arrests including those of Opposition leaders like Rahul Gandhi and Akhilesh Yadav. Prime Minister Narendra Modi defended government actions while calling for a national dialogue on the issue.

On Tuesday, Rahul Gandhi led an Opposition sit-in near Prime Minister Narendra Modi's residence to protest paper leaks and demand the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. Police broke up the protest within three hours, detaining top leaders including Gandhi and Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge. The government claims it agreed to discuss the issue in Parliament but alleges Gandhi reneged on this agreement by insisting on Pradhan's resignation.

The Indian Express's evening briefing covers protests in Delhi over education policy, evolving into a political challenge with Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra leading the Opposition's response. Demonstrations outside Parliament reflect public anger and internal political dynamics. The Prime Minister addressed criticism over NEET paper leaks at a parliamentary meeting. Student protests have grown beyond Jantar Mantar to Parliament Street, drawing nationwide attention and raising questions about government accountability.

Rahul Gandhi, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, and several Congress leaders conducted a surprise sit-in protest outside Prime Minister Narendra Modi's residence on Tuesday, demanding his resignation. Police had prepared security arrangements at Vijay Chowk instead. A scuffle ensued when police tried to remove the protesters. The unexpected turnout of around 25,000-30,000 people overwhelmed initial security plans.

Sources told NDTV that Congress MPs thought they were invited to Mallikarjun Kharge's house for his birthday but were instead asked at the last minute to join a protest against paper leak issues. The march, led by Rahul Gandhi, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, and Kharge, began around 3:15 pm and reached Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s residence. Police detained leaders including Rahul and Priyanka Gandhi and dispersed protesters by 7 pm.

Launching a protest against NEET paper leaks and other issues outside Prime Minister Narendra Modi's residence, Congress leaders including Rahul Gandhi were detained on Tuesday evening. Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan accused the Congress of exploiting students for political gain rather than addressing their concerns through debate. The protest was broken up around 6.30 pm and the protesters were released by 9 pm. Pradhan emphasized that the government is committed to discussing these issues in Parliament, not engaging in political spectacles.

On Tuesday, Rahul Gandhi, an Indian opposition leader, was detained by police while picketing outside Prime Minister Narendra Modi's residence in New Delhi. He demanded Modi's resignation for "destroying the future of India’s youth" and criticized the government's crackdown on student protests demanding educational reform. Police also arrested his sister, Priyanka Gandhi, amid growing public sympathy for protesters.

Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy strongly condemned the detention of Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, and other party leaders, calling it an assault on democratic rights. In a social media statement, he expressed solidarity with protesters against the Centre's actions, asserting that the Congress would continue to support the fight for justice and accountability. Published July 21, 2026.
On July 21, 2026, Rahul Gandhi demanded a discussion on the NEET paper leak and additional resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, changing his demands during talks with Jitendra Singh. This led to his sit-in protest outside Narendra Modi’s residence and subsequent detention by Delhi Police, sparking political tensions between Congress, AAP, and BJP over credit for the protests.

On Tuesday, Aam Aadmi Party accused Congress leader Rahul Gandhi of weakening the movement by organizing a protest outside Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s residence over Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation. Former Delhi Chief Minister Atishi and senior AAP leader Saurabh Bharadwaj criticized the government for quickly engaging with Mr. Gandhi while ignoring the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) for a month. Published July 21, 2026.

The swearing-in of Karnataka cabinet ministers was postponed after Rahul Gandhi led a Congress protest march to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's residence in Delhi, where he and other leaders were detained. Chief Minister DK Shivakumar also joined the protest and was detained. The new date for the swearing-in is yet to be announced.

Aaditya Thackeray, leader of Shiv Sena (UBT), criticized the BJP-led governments for suppressing democratic protests, specifically condemning the police crackdown on the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) protest in New Delhi as worse than British rule atrocities. He accused the government of failing to engage with protesting students and using an authoritarian mindset. Meanwhile, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis defended the police action, stating it was necessary to avoid mishaps and noting that some protesters vandalized property. Tensions escalated with opposition leaders holding a protest outside Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s residence.

Jitendra Singh, Union Minister, met Rahul Gandhi during a Congress protest outside Prime Minister Narendra Modi's residence. Gandhi demanded discussion on NEET and paper leaks in Parliament to end the sit-in; the government agreed but Gandhi later insisted on Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation, leading to inconclusive talks. Singh alleged Gandhi backtracked from his original agreement.

Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) removed Vijeta Dahiya as spokesperson on Tuesday after videos of him eating a burger during the party's protest march to parliament went viral. The CJP condemned his actions as insensitive and inconsistent with party values, while Dahiya defended himself, refusing accountability.

On Monday, 90 students were injured during a protest by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) at Jantar Mantar in Delhi; a 20-year-old woman is now in ICU. By Tuesday morning, 79 had been discharged. The protests, demanding Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation over NEET-UG paper leak controversies, saw clashes with police and damage to vehicles. JP Nadda met injured protesters and held talks with CJP representatives seeking Sonam Wangchuk’s release and compensation for families of alleged suicides. Despite Monday's violence, protests continued Tuesday.

On Tuesday, Rahul Gandhi, Mallikarjun Kharge, and Priyanka Gandhi led Congress workers in a protest march to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's residence in New Delhi, demanding accountability for the "brutality" against students during Monday’s protests. Union Minister Jitendra Singh spoke with Rahul Gandhi but talks were inconclusive. The protest continued overnight as Congress sought Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation and a parliamentary discussion on NEET paper leaks.

On the first day of parliament's monsoon session, Rahul Gandhi, Akhilesh Yadav, and Priyanka Gandhi met for nearly an hour in the office of the Leader of the Opposition to discuss Uttar Pradesh assembly seat-sharing and issues like theft at Ayodhya's Ram Temple. The Congress aims for around 100 seats, mainly in strong electoral areas, while the Samajwadi Party is less willing to allocate such a high number.

On Monday, protests over paper leaks in Delhi turned violent as police cracked down on demonstrators. Opposition leaders, including Rahul Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge, called for a discussion in Parliament and demanded the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. They plan to disrupt parliamentary proceedings, pressing for reforms amid youth anger over education issues.

On July 19, T. Jagga Reddy, working president of Telangana Congress, criticized the language used by K.T. Rama Rao (BRS working president) against the Gandhi family, questioning its alignment with Telangana culture. Jagga Reddy referred to Sonia Gandhi’s role in forming Telangana and challenged KTR on his comments wishing harm upon Rahul and Priyanka Gandhi. He also highlighted the Congress government's employment initiatives under Revanth Reddy, contrasting it with alleged failures by the BRS leadership.

On July 18, 2026, K.T. Rama Rao, working president of Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS), accused the ruling Congress party leaders, including Rahul Gandhi and Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy, of deceiving youth by failing to fulfill promises in the ‘Youth Declaration’. Addressing a rally at Saroornagar Stadium in Hyderabad, KTR called on unemployed youth to write a “death declaration” for these leaders and threatened to quit politics if Congress proved it filled 70,000 jobs. He admitted BRS had made some mistakes but criticized Congress for misleading the public about job creation figures.
