Delhi Police deployed a water cannon on BJP protesters outside a Delhi Jal Board office in Okhla, demonstrating against the AAP government over the city’s water crisis amid a severe heatwave. Led by BJP leader Ramesh Bidhuri, the demonstrators faced water dispersal after refusing to disperse. Video footage of the incident quickly went viral, sparking widespread online criticism and ironic commentary. Social media users pointed out the paradox of using water to disrupt a protest against water shortage, with many questioning the decision's logic in addressing civic grievances.

Anurag Yadav, 22, admitted using leaked NEET-UG 2024 exam papers, provided by his uncle, a junior engineer. Despite access to the paper, Yadav scored only 185 out of 720, with notable discrepancies in his percentile scores: 85.8 in Physics, 51 in Biology, and just 5 in Chemistry. This revelation intensified calls for a NEET retest, with students protesting the NTA’s exam conduct. Investigations revealed his uncle facilitated the paper leak, charging Rs 40 lakh per student. The scandal has cast serious doubts on the exam's integrity, prompting urgent demands for stringent reforms.

The education ministry has established a high-level committee led by former ISRO chief Dr. K. Radhakrishnan to reform the National Testing Agency (NTA) following recent exam paper leaks and irregularities. The seven-member panel will focus on improving the examination process, enhancing data security, and refining NTA's structure. Other members include Dr. Randeep Guleria and Prof. B. J. Rao. The committee will review current protocols and suggest measures to prevent breaches and improve efficiency. A report is expected within two months.

The death toll in Tamil Nadu's Kallakurichi district hooch tragedy rose to 53, with 193 affected by consuming illicit liquor. BJP demanded the resignation of Prohibition and Excise Minister S Muthusamy, accusing the DMK government of negligence. Chief Minister MK Stalin announced Rs 10 lakh compensation per victim and set up a commission to probe the incident. Four arrests have been made, and action against methanol suppliers is underway. The tragedy prompted disposal of 250 liters of illicit liquor in Tiruchirapalli. Criticism mounts as investigations intensify into the deadliest hooch incident in recent Tamil Nadu history.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah inaugurated the Fast Track Immigration Trusted Traveller Programme (FTI-TTP) at Delhi’s IGI airport. The initiative aims to expedite immigration clearance for pre-approved travellers by allowing them to submit biometrics and necessary details online. Once approved, FTI-TTP participants can use dedicated lanes at airports, bypassing regular queues. The programme targets Indian nationals and OCI cardholders, enhancing travel efficiency and security. Applicants must pay a processing fee, and registrations are valid for up to five years or until passport expiry.

In a stark irony, Delhi Police used water cannons to disperse BJP workers protesting the city's water crisis outside the Delhi Jal Board office. The protest, led by Ramesh Bidhuri, highlighted the acute water shortage in several areas due to reduced Yamuna River levels and technical issues at treatment plants. Social media users condemned the police's actions, pointing out the absurdity of using water cannons during a water crisis. The crisis has left many without water supply, forcing them to rely on tankers and borewells. The incident has sparked outrage and raised questions about the authorities' handling of the situation.

Singer Lucky Ali has lodged a complaint with Karnataka Lokayukta against IAS officer Rohini Sindhuri, alleging land grabbing involving her husband and brother-in-law. Ali claims they misused state resources to encroach upon land illegally. This follows earlier social media posts by Ali highlighting similar concerns. Sindhuri, previously involved in a public feud with IPS officer D Roopa Moudgil, faces mounting legal challenges. The complaint adds to existing controversies surrounding Sindhuri's tenure. Investigations are underway amid heightened scrutiny over the allegations.

Acharya Laxmikant Dixit, the priest who consecrated the Ayodhya Ram temple, has died at 86. He had been ill for several days. His last rites will be held at Manikarnika Ghat. Dixit, a respected scholar, led the January ceremony attended by Prime Minister Modi. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath paid tribute to Dixit, acknowledging his contributions to Sanskrit and Indian culture. Adityanath praised Dixit's service and offered condolences to his followers. Dixit's passing is a significant loss to the spiritual community, and his legacy will be remembered.

Following the deadly Kanchanjunga Express-goods train collision that killed 11, Indian Railways is set to enhance its communication system to prevent similar mishaps. A proposal by Northeast Frontier Railway suggests installing stabilisers-cum-call recorders at rail-gate cabins to record conversations between gatemen, station masters, and officials. This will facilitate swift investigations into future incidents and glitches. The new system aims to minimize technical confusion and improve communication between departments, ensuring a safer railway network. The proposal is under consideration, and implementation details are yet to be announced.

Telegram has taken action by blocking channels responsible for circulating leaked UGC-NET exam papers, leading to the cancellation of the test. The move follows allegations that the platform facilitated the distribution of unauthorized content. The CBI has initiated an investigation, prompted by inputs from the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre, regarding the paper's availability on the darknet and messaging platforms. The government has announced plans for a re-examination amidst heightened scrutiny over exam security and digital platforms' role in preventing such breaches.