Ajay Rai

TNN

Dalit Congress leaders' unscheduled visit to BSP chief Mayawati's residence in Lucknow ended in an awkward snub, with the party later disavowing the outreach. Notices were issued to MP Tanuj Punia and SC department chairman Rajendra Pal Gautam for the "unauthorised" move, causing confusion amid Rahul Gandhi's UP visit and SP's alliance assertion.

UP Congress chief Ajay Rai was hospitalized after fainting during a Lucknow event. Initially feared to be a stroke or seizure, doctors now suspect sodium depletion caused his collapse. While his blood pressure was high, preliminary tests show no serious brain injury. Rai has regained consciousness and is stable, easing concerns among party members.

The party has bought itself time after recent electoral gains. Yet the road to 2029 will test whether Congress can reinvent itself — or remain a diminished player in national politics.

Lucknow teachers-doctors conclave held

Jharkhand's Health Minister Irfan Ansari has ordered school closures in heatwave-hit regions following concerns raised by the Jharkhand Parents Association. The association highlighted rising cases of dehydration and fatigue among students, advocating for revised school timings or temporary breaks. Authorities are urging residents to avoid midday sun and hospitals are on alert for heat-related illnesses.

They alleged some of those arrested were brutally beaten by police

Ranchi administration has issued notices to 20 private schools for violating the Jharkhand Education Tribunal Act. Schools are accused of arbitrary fee hikes, selling books on campus, and neglecting student safety during transport. Directives include submitting detailed fee structures and forming Parent-Teacher Associations to ensure transparency and fairness for all families.

Congress workers in Gorakhpur protested against Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma. They condemned his alleged objectionable remarks targeting party president Mallikarjun Kharge and spokesperson Pawan Khera. The demonstration involved raising slogans and burning an effigy. The party demanded a public apology from Sarma. They warned of statewide agitation if an apology is not issued.