New Maharashtra Security Bill 2024 Targets Extremism but Raises Misuse Concerns Under Section 5
A recently enacted Maharashtra Special Public Security Bill, 2024, aimed at combating unlawful activities linked to Left-wing extremist groups and urban Naxalism, has raised concerns from opposition leaders about potential misuse. A senior opposition figure expressed fears that the legislation's provisions could be exploited to target political opponents, activists, journalists, and farmers critical of the government. The ruling coalition maintains the bill includes sufficient safeguards against abuse. The opposition leader also highlighted alleged misuse of central investigative agencies and referenced judicial criticism of the Enforcement Directorate's interpretation of anti-money laundering laws. In response, the opposition party plans a public awareness campaign to promote its leader's past efforts supporting socially disadvantaged communities.

Illegal Chinese toys, fake cosmetics, and unbranded shoes worth Rs 6.5 crore seized for violating import and quality rules
Authorities seized 160 metric tonnes of illegally imported Chinese toys, counterfeit cosmetics, and unbranded shoes valued at over Rs 6.5 crore from multiple ports. The goods were concealed in containers and falsely declared as innocuous items to evade detection. The toys lacked mandatory BIS certification, violating the Foreign Trade Policy and Toys (Quality Control) Order, 2020. Counterfeit cosmetics were imported without proper licensing and breached Intellectual Property Rights enforcement rules. The shoes also failed to meet BIS certification requirements under the Footwear Quality Control Order, 2024. Such non-compliant goods are subject to destruction or return at the importer's expense.

Private Traders Must Get Government License Before Buying Farm Produce Under New Rules
The state government of Maharashtra has mandated that private traders must obtain government permission before purchasing agricultural produce directly from farmers. Traders are required to secure a license from the marketing committee or the marketing department director to legally buy such products. The marketing director is authorized to issue a Single Unified Licence enabling traders to operate nationwide. Additionally, the government approved creating a cadre of marketing committee secretaries under the marketing director's authority. The cabinet also emphasized the implementation of the National Agriculture Market (e-NAM) scheme across 133 Agriculture Marketing Produce Committees in the state to ensure farmers receive fair prices. The e-NAM platform integrates existing APMC mandis to facilitate a unified electronic trading market for agricultural commodities.

China-US extend tariff pause, keep current rates while discussing trade, investment, and export controls under ongoing talks
China and the United States agreed to extend their current tariff pauses following two days of trade talks in Stockholm, maintaining US tariffs on Chinese goods at 30% and Chinese tariffs on US products at 10%. The discussions were described as constructive and candid, covering microeconomic issues and ongoing communication on trade and economic matters. The extension follows a previous 90-day tariff pause set to expire in August. Additional topics included market access, Chinese investment in the US, fentanyl components, Chinese purchases of Russian and Iranian oil, and US export controls on technology. While no final deal was confirmed, the talks aim to stabilize trade relations and potentially pave the way for a summit between senior leaders. Both sides acknowledged ongoing tensions but emphasized the importance of continued dialogue to address trade disputes and seek longer-term economic balance.

Rs 1.53 Crore Recovered and Returned to Victims in Major Job Fraud Case Under New Criminal Laws
Police recovered Rs 1.53 crore in a multi-crore job fraud case and distributed the amount among victims. The accused defrauded individuals by falsely promising government jobs, collecting over Rs 2.39 crore. Following a complaint, the accused was arrested, and an investigation led to the attachment of property linked to proceeds of crime under newly enacted criminal laws. A court ordered the property attachment, and a co-accused admitted to receiving Rs 1.53 crore, agreeing to refund it, which was done in installments. The recovered funds have been distributed to verified victims through a dedicated account. This marks the first successful restitution under the new criminal justice reforms in the region, emphasizing victim compensation and legal accountability in economic offenses.

Opposition leader questions ceasefire decision, urges clarity on multi-front threats and government transparency
A senior opposition leader criticized the government for agreeing to a ceasefire following a military operation against a neighboring country, questioning the rationale despite claimed successes such as damaging multiple enemy airbases. He highlighted the fusion of threats from two hostile nations and urged the government to clarify its strategy for such a multi-front conflict. The leader praised the armed forces' leadership for transparency and admission of tactical errors but faulted the government for failing to acknowledge intelligence and security lapses or to involve Parliament and opposition parties. He emphasized the complexity of terrorism involving both foreign-infiltrated and domestic actors and disputed claims that the terrorist infrastructure had been dismantled. Additionally, he condemned the government's lack of diplomatic response to foreign political statements and actions perceived as unfavorable to national interests, including deportations and trade issues.

Senior diplomats appointed as Secretary (West) and Secretary (Economic Relations) in External Affairs Ministry
A senior diplomat serving as ambassador to Japan has been appointed Secretary (West) in the Ministry of External Affairs, replacing the outgoing incumbent set to retire later this year. Another experienced diplomat, previously ambassador to Bhutan, has been appointed Secretary (Economic Relations) in the same ministry, succeeding the current officeholder who is also retiring soon. Both appointees are career Indian Foreign Service officers with extensive diplomatic experience, including prior ambassadorial roles and significant postings in trade, economic policy, and regional affairs. Their appointments were approved by the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet and formalized through Personnel Ministry orders.

Committee to Investigate Bird Hazards at Airport and Recommend Waste Management Solutions Within One Week
A joint committee was established by regional authorities to investigate bird-related hazards at a regional airport. The committee, comprising representatives from local development, municipal, military, and airport authorities, is tasked with conducting field visits and submitting a report within one week. The committee's mandate includes identifying causes of bird hazards, notably the attraction caused by garbage accumulation and waste dumping near the airport. Authorities directed local municipal and development bodies to implement effective waste disposal systems and initiate awareness campaigns to prevent garbage dumping in the vicinity, aiming to mitigate risks posed by birds to airport operations.

Airline faces 100 violations including 7 critical safety risks under aviation regulations after fatal crash audit
The aviation regulator conducted an audit of a major airline owned by a conglomerate, uncovering approximately 100 violations related to training, crew rest and duty periods, airfield qualifications, and crew complement. Seven violations were classified as critical safety risks requiring immediate corrective measures. The airline acknowledged the findings and committed to responding within the regulator's deadline, outlining corrective actions. The audit followed a recent fatal crash involving the airline's aircraft, which resulted in significant loss of life and is under investigation. Prior to the audit, the regulator issued show cause notices and removed certain officials from crew scheduling roles due to serious violations. The preliminary accident report indicated simultaneous fuel supply cutoff to both engines shortly after takeoff, leading to the crash. The airline emphasized transparency during the audit and reaffirmed its commitment to passenger and staff safety.

Court defers decision on ED chargesheet in Rs 2,000 crore money laundering case under PMLA Section 3
A Delhi court deferred its decision on taking cognisance of the Enforcement Directorate's chargesheet in a case involving alleged conspiracy and money laundering related to the takeover of properties worth Rs 2,000 crore belonging to a publishing company. The chargesheet names several political figures, associates, and private companies accused of fraudulently acquiring assets through a loan transaction. The court directed further inspection of the case files and scheduled the investigating officer's appearance for early August to continue proceedings.

Government addresses bidder concerns on Bulk Drug Park project under environmental and waste management rules
The state government addressed bidders' concerns regarding the Bulk Drug Park project, focusing on issues related to the design, construction, and commissioning of a common effluent treatment plant with zero liquid discharge, hazardous waste collection facilities, and environmental clearances. The Industries Minister chaired a committee meeting reviewing prior decisions and assured resolution of challenges to facilitate smooth project implementation. The government committed to monitoring progress closely and urged all involved departments to expedite the tender allotment process to prevent delays and ensure timely completion of the project.

Transportation Company Sues for Trademark Infringement Over Unauthorized Use of Trade Name Under Section 29
A transportation-services company filed a trademark infringement suit against a private firm and its directors, alleging unauthorized use of its trade name to create a competing business. The court issued summonses to the defendants and ordered them to respond within a month, scheduling further hearings. The plaintiff claimed the defendants, originally associated with the company, abused their positions to establish a new entity using the same name, misleading clients and vendors into believing it was a continuation of the original business. The plaintiff sought an interim injunction, arguing the defendants' actions caused confusion, misrepresentation, and damage to the original company's goodwill and reputation.

Domestic Currency Hits Four-Month Low Amid Rising Oil Prices and Dollar Demand, Section 12 Impact
The domestic currency depreciated to a four-month low against the US dollar, closing 21 paise lower due to increased demand for dollars from importers and oil companies, a rise in crude oil prices, and a stronger US dollar index. Market participants remained cautious ahead of key monetary policy decisions by the US Federal Reserve and the Bank of Japan, as well as ongoing trade negotiations between the domestic country and the US, with a deadline approaching. Foreign institutional investors continued significant equity sell-offs, contributing to the currency's weakness. The uncertainty surrounding trade talks and global economic policies is expected to maintain pressure on the currency, with potential volatility depending on the outcomes of these events.

Fake residence certificate filed using actress photo and tractor lineage; police investigate under IT and criminal laws
An application for a residence certificate was submitted in Bihar in the name of a tractor, falsely claiming lineage from other tractors and attaching a photograph of a known actress. The application was promptly rejected by the local authority, and a police investigation was launched for misuse of the photograph and fraudulent intent. Authorities are tracking the applicant via IP address and plan to take legal action under relevant criminal and IT laws. This incident follows a prior case where a residence certificate was mistakenly issued to a dog, leading to administrative disciplinary actions including an FIR, dismissal, and suspension of officials involved. The events have sparked controversy amid ongoing electoral roll revisions that accept residence certificates but not other identity documents.

Odisha Seeks Rs 3,069 Crore Under RDSS to Upgrade Power Infrastructure and Add 800 MW Capacity
The Odisha government has requested the central government to sanction Rs 3,069 crore under the Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme (RDSS) to upgrade its power distribution infrastructure. The demand was made during a meeting between the state's Deputy Chief Minister and the Union Power Minister. The RDSS aims to reduce technical and commercial losses in power distribution by providing financial assistance to companies meeting specific reform criteria. Odisha emphasized the need for disaster-resilient power infrastructure due to frequent cyclones and floods, proposing selective underground cabling near the coastline. Additionally, the state sought an increased allocation of 800 MW from a central power project, adding to the existing 400 MW allocation, to meet rising power demand.

Supreme Court to Hear Review Petitions on May 2 IBC Ruling Invalidating Steel Company Resolution Plan
The Supreme Court scheduled a hearing on July 31 to consider review petitions challenging its May 2 decision that set aside a resolution plan by a steel company for a corporate debtor, deeming it illegal under the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC). The court had ordered liquidation of the corporate debtor, criticizing the resolution professional, the Committee of Creditors (CoC), and the tribunal for procedural violations and failure to uphold IBC objectives. The former promoters and the resolution applicant filed review petitions against the verdict. The court had previously stayed liquidation proceedings pending these reviews. The May ruling found that the resolution professional neglected statutory duties and the CoC failed to exercise commercial wisdom in approving the resolution plan, resulting in a "flagrant violation" of the IBC and related regulations.

State Explores Investment and Cooperation Opportunities in Mining, Tourism, Education, and Labor Skill Development
The state government engaged with a US diplomatic official to explore investment and cooperation opportunities across multiple sectors including mining, tourism, agriculture, higher education, health, environmental sustainability, and labor. Discussions highlighted initiatives aimed at women's empowerment and labor skill development, as well as potential partnerships with American universities. The state's mining department proposed joint ventures in mineral extraction and equipment manufacturing, emphasizing collaboration in processing lithium, graphite, and titanium. Tourism development was also considered. These talks aim to foster mutual cooperation and economic growth through strategic investments and knowledge exchange.

US stocks inch up as earnings, Fed rate talks, and US-China trade deadlines shape market outlook
US stock indexes showed modest gains amid a busy week of corporate earnings reports and upcoming economic decisions. Several major companies reported quarterly profits, with some exceeding expectations and others falling short, impacting their stock prices accordingly. The Federal Reserve is set to begin a two-day meeting to decide on short-term interest rates, with market participants anticipating a cautious approach pending further economic data related to tariffs. Trade negotiations between the US and China continue under a looming August deadline, with potential tariff reinstatements if no agreement or extension is reached. Additional tariff deadlines and key economic reports, including employment data, are expected later in the week. These developments may influence whether the US stock market sustains its recent record highs or faces downward pressure amid concerns about overvaluation and economic uncertainty.

India ready to assist against cross-border terrorism under Section 3 of the Anti-Terrorism Act
The Defence Minister stated that if the neighboring country is unable to act against terrorism within its borders, India is prepared to assist, including conducting operations across the border. Referring to a recent counter-terrorism operation that targeted perpetrators of a deadly attack, he emphasized that the operation was defensive and aimed at dismantling terror infrastructure and sending a strong message of zero tolerance. The operation has been paused but may resume if cross-border terrorism continues. The minister criticized opposition for questioning the government's approach and underscored the need for a firm response rather than diplomatic engagement in the face of terrorism. He also condemned international bodies for appointing the neighboring country to counter-terrorism roles despite its alleged support for terrorism. Additionally, he highlighted India's progress toward defense self-reliance and significant growth in defense exports.