Nivedita

The Supreme Court criticized the Commission for Air Quality Management for its inaction regarding pollution and stubble burning in Delhi. The court emphasized that the commission needs to be more proactive in addressing these issues, noting that it has issued only a limited number of directives since the CAQM Act's inception. The justices expressed concern over the effectiveness of the commission's committees, which meet infrequently, and directed the commission to ensure that equipment provided to prevent stubble burning is actually utilized by farmers. A compliance report is expected by October 3.

On Friday, Israel launched a series of deadly airstrikes in the Dahiyeh district of southern Beirut, marking the largest military action in Lebanon since the conflict with Hezbollah began on October 8. The strikes resulted in multiple casualties and significant damage, escalating the ongoing tensions between the two sides. Rescue efforts are currently underway as reports of further casualties continue to emerge.

On Friday evening, a boundary wall near the Mahakal Temple in Ujjain collapsed due to heavy rainfall, resulting in the deaths of two individuals and leaving several others feared trapped under the debris. Rescue operations are ongoing, with four injured people already hospitalized. Ujjain District Magistrate Neeraj Kumar Singh confirmed the incident was caused by the intense flow of water, while Chief Medical Officer Ashok Patel noted that emergency teams are prepared for additional casualties.

Former Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal criticized the BJP after their candidate, Sunder Singh, won the last vacant seat on the MCD standing committee, receiving 115 votes while AAP’s Nirmala Kumari received none. Kejriwal questioned the election's legitimacy, accusing the BJP of "hooliganism" and highlighting procedural violations, including the failure to send meeting notices. Delhi Mayor Shelly Oberoi called the election “unconstitutional,” stating that AAP councillors would not participate. The election was ordered by MCD Commissioner Ashwani Kumar, despite previous adjournments.

The recent controversy surrounding the use of beef tallow and fish oil in the sacred Tirupati Laddoo has shed light on ancient practices regarding the proper handling of ingredients to prevent adulteration in the holy prasadam. According to information, inscriptions on the walls of the Lord Venkateswara temple detail measures for managing essential ingredients like ghee.One inscription from 1019 CE outlines systematic ghee packaging and transport to Tirumala. It also mentions the appointment of a royal officer to oversee temple services and ensure the quality of offerings.