Jammu Kashmir Update: Doda Tension Rises After Youth Dies in SOG Firing, Security Tightened

Breaking: Aamir Khan Clarifies 3 Idiots Link With Sonam Wangchuk Amid Social Media Debate

ABP News Bureau — Fri, 17 Jul 2026 14:29:06 +0530

Bollywood actor Aamir Khan has addressed the ongoing discussion surrounding his connection with educationist Sonam Wangchuk, whose 19-day hunger strike at Delhi’s Jantar Mantar has drawn widespread attention. During an interaction at a film festival in London, Aamir Khan clarified that the popular character Rancho from the 2009 film 3 Idiots was not based on Sonam Wangchuk. For years, many viewers believed that Aamir Khan’s character Phunsukh Wangdu, also known as Rancho, was inspired by Wangchuk’s life and work. However, Aamir stated that neither he, director Rajkumar Hirani, nor the writers were aware of Sonam Wangchuk while developing the character. He also added that Wangchuk’s work deserves respect independently and does not need to be connected with the film’s character. The clarification comes amid growing discussions on social media, where questions were being raised over Aamir Khan’s silence regarding Sonam Wangchuk’s protest. The actor’s statement has now become a topic of debate, with supporters and critics sharing different views on his remarks. Meanwhile, Sonam Wangchuk’s ongoing protest has continued to attract public attention, with supporters highlighting his demands and environmental concerns, while political discussions around the issue have also intensified. Aamir Khan’s latest statement appears aimed at clearing misconceptions about the connection between 3 Idiots and Sonam Wangchuk. The actor emphasized that respect for Wangchuk’s work should not depend on any association with a popular film character. The controversy surrounding the film’s inspiration and Wangchuk’s protest continues to generate discussions across social media platforms and public forums.

Gujarat ATS Action: Five Jaish-Linked Suspects Arrested Over Alleged Terror Plot

ABP News Bureau — Fri, 17 Jul 2026 14:26:48 +0530

Gujarat Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) has achieved a major breakthrough after arresting five individuals allegedly linked to the banned terror organisation Jaish-e-Mohammed. According to preliminary information, the suspects were reportedly planning a major terror attack and were detained from different districts of Gujarat. Officials are investigating the alleged links of the accused with the terror network and are gathering further details about their activities, contacts, and possible plans. Investigators have also claimed that the suspects were allegedly involved in testing explosive-related material as part of the suspected conspiracy. The arrested individuals have been identified as Bilal Abid Shera, Mohammad Ayub Kadeval, Mohammad Shafi Chapi, Mohammad Hasan Haiderapuri, and Mohammad Ayub Sunasara. Gujarat ATS is conducting further questioning to uncover the extent of the alleged network and whether more people are connected to the case. The arrests come as security agencies continue to monitor and take action against suspected terror modules across the country. Officials are examining digital evidence, communications, and other available inputs as part of the investigation. Authorities have not yet released complete details of the alleged plot, and further information is expected as the probe progresses. The Gujarat ATS action highlights the continued focus of security agencies on preventing potential terror activities and dismantling suspected extremist networks.

PM Modi Jind Roadshow: Prime Minister Flags Off India’s First Hydrogen Train in Haryana

ABP News Bureau — Fri, 17 Jul 2026 14:24:35 +0530

Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a grand roadshow in Jind, Haryana, where a large number of people gathered along the streets to welcome him. The Prime Minister waved at supporters and acknowledged greetings from the crowd as he moved through the city. Earlier, PM Modi flagged off India’s first hydrogen-powered train from Jind railway station, marking a significant milestone in the country’s clean energy and railway modernization efforts. The launch event witnessed enthusiastic participation from local residents and officials. During his Haryana visit, the Prime Minister also addressed a public gathering and highlighted development initiatives aimed at boosting infrastructure and connectivity in the region. The hydrogen train launch was among the key highlights of his visit, as India takes steps towards adopting greener transportation solutions. The Prime Minister’s visit is part of a wider development outreach programme covering Haryana, Chandigarh, and Punjab. After Haryana, PM Modi is scheduled to inaugurate and lay foundation stones for several projects in Punjab involving infrastructure and public development works. The visuals from Jind show people gathered on both sides of the road, welcoming the Prime Minister and cheering during the roadshow. Security arrangements were strengthened in view of the high-profile visit, while preparations were made to ensure smooth movement during the programme. The hydrogen train initiative is being seen as a major step towards reducing emissions in the railway sector and promoting alternative fuel technologies. The event in Jind has become a key moment in India’s push for sustainable transport and regional development.

UP Politics: CM Yogi Targets SP-Congress in Shamli, Appeals for Discipline During Kanwar Yatra

ABP News Bureau — Fri, 17 Jul 2026 14:22:54 +0530

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath launched a sharp political attack on the opposition parties during his two-day visit to western Uttar Pradesh. Addressing a gathering in Shamli, the Chief Minister targeted the Samajwadi Party and Congress, accusing them of following the ideology of Muhammad Ali Jinnah and questioning their stance on religious issues. Speaking about the ongoing Kanwar Yatra, CM Yogi appealed to devotees to maintain discipline, patience, and peace during the religious journey. He said that maintaining order and respecting traditions should remain a priority while participating in the yatra. The Chief Minister also recalled the situation before 2017 in Uttar Pradesh and alleged that earlier governments had restricted religious events and celebrations. He claimed that religious processions and festivals faced restrictions in the past, while the current government has ensured that such events are conducted smoothly. Highlighting his government’s development agenda, Yogi Adityanath said that the BJP-led double-engine government is working towards fulfilling the vision of former Prime Minister Chaudhary Charan Singh for farmers, youth, and the progress of western Uttar Pradesh. The remarks come amid ongoing political exchanges between the ruling BJP and opposition parties in the state. With religious events and governance issues becoming major talking points, political leaders continue to debate their respective positions ahead of future electoral battles. The Chief Minister’s statements in Shamli are expected to further intensify the political discourse in Uttar Pradesh, where issues related to faith, development, and law and order remain key subjects of public discussion.

Nitin Gadkari EXCLUSIVE: E20 Petrol Reduces Mileage? Gadkari Explains Engine Damage & Ethanol Facts

ABP Live — Fri, 17 Jul 2026 14:05:42 +0530

In this exclusive interview with Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari, we take an in-depth look at the facts behind E20 petrol (ethanol-blended fuel), fuel mileage, engine performance, farmers' income, India's energy security, and the country's future alternative fuel strategy.

Does E20 petrol reduce mileage? Can ethanol damage vehicle engines? How true are the claims circulating on social media? In this conversation, Nitin Gadkari acknowledges the difference in the calorific value of petrol and ethanol, explaining that while there may be a slight drop in fuel efficiency on highways, the impact is minimal in city traffic conditions.

The minister also highlights that India spends nearly ₹22 lakh crore every year on petroleum imports. According to him, the Ethanol Blending Programme is much more than a fuel policy it is a national mission aimed at reducing crude oil imports, saving foreign exchange, cutting pollution, strengthening India's energy independence, and transforming farmers from "food providers" to "energy providers."

Addressing concerns about engine damage, Gadkari clarifies that E20-compatible vehicles undergo extensive technical testing before being introduced to the market. He advises consumers facing genuine issues to report them to their authorized vehicle dealers and inform the concerned authorities.

Kolkata Update: Airport Security Tightened After Announcement of Namaz at 136-Year-Old Mosque

ABP News Bureau — Fri, 17 Jul 2026 13:30:33 +0530

Security arrangements have been strengthened outside Kolkata Airport following an announcement regarding prayers at a 136-year-old mosque located within the airport premises. Authorities have increased deployment around the airport area as a precautionary measure amid concerns over maintaining law and order. The announcement of offering namaz at the historic mosque was made by Siddiqullah Chowdhury, following which security agencies stepped up monitoring near the airport. The mosque, which has remained a subject of discussion, is located inside the Kolkata Airport complex and has reportedly not been operational for prayers for some time. Police and security personnel have been positioned outside the airport to ensure smooth movement of passengers and prevent any situation that could affect public order. Authorities are closely monitoring developments and have urged people to maintain peace. The issue has drawn attention due to the mosque’s location within a high-security airport zone, where strict access and security protocols are maintained. Officials are focusing on balancing religious sentiments with aviation security requirements. Further updates are awaited as authorities continue discussions and assess the situation. The Kolkata Airport administration and security agencies remain alert to ensure that airport operations continue without disruption. The development comes amid wider discussions around religious sites located near or within public infrastructure areas, highlighting the need for coordination between local authorities, security agencies, and community representatives.

Sambhal Update: Bulldozer Action Against Alleged Encroachments as Imam Bara and Shrine Demolished

ABP News Bureau — Fri, 17 Jul 2026 13:21:53 +0530

A major administrative action is underway in Uttar Pradesh’s Sambhal, where authorities have launched a demolition drive against structures allegedly built on government land. The operation involves the removal of an Imam Bara and a shrine, with administration teams reaching the spot along with heavy police deployment to maintain security. According to officials, notices were issued earlier regarding the structures, following which a revenue department inspection was carried out. After a hearing at the tehsil level and examination of land records, authorities reportedly passed orders for demolition, leading to the current action. The administration has stated that the drive is part of an ongoing campaign to remove encroachments from government-owned land, including Gram Samaj and Nazul land. Officials have maintained that the action is being taken after due process and is aimed at freeing public land from unauthorized occupation. Security arrangements have been strengthened in the area as the demolition involves religious structures, with police personnel deployed to prevent any disturbance and ensure the operation continues peacefully. The administration has emphasized that the action is based on land ownership and legality of construction. The Sambhal administration has indicated that similar operations may continue in other areas where illegal constructions or encroachments are identified after verification. The latest demolition drive has once again brought attention to the issue of government land encroachment and enforcement measures being taken by local authorities.

Sambhal Update: Bulldozer Action Begins on Imam Bara and Shrine Over Alleged Illegal Construction

ABP News Bureau — Fri, 17 Jul 2026 13:19:04 +0530

A demolition drive has intensified in Uttar Pradesh’s Sambhal, where the administration has started removing structures identified as alleged illegal constructions on government land. The action involves an Imam Bara and a shrine, with bulldozers reaching the spot as officials began the demolition process. According to administrative officials, notices had earlier been issued regarding the structures, following which a revenue department inspection was conducted. After reviewing the matter, authorities reportedly passed orders for the removal of the constructions, leading to the current demolition action. A heavy police deployment has been arranged at the site as a precautionary measure to maintain law and order during the operation. Officials stated that the drive is part of a broader campaign in Sambhal to clear encroachments from government land, including areas classified as Gram Samaj and Nazul land. The administration has maintained that the action is being taken against unauthorized constructions and is being carried out according to legal procedures. Authorities have said that similar measures will continue against encroachments found on public land after proper verification and notices. The demolition has drawn attention due to the involvement of religious structures, with local authorities emphasizing that the action is focused on land ownership and legality of construction rather than the nature of the structures. Further updates are awaited as the administration continues its inspection and enforcement drive across the district. Security arrangements remain in place to prevent any untoward incident and ensure the process is completed peacefully.

Ayodhya Update: Ram Temple Trust Reviews Staff After Reports of 100 Possible Employee Exits

ABP News Bureau — Fri, 17 Jul 2026 12:08:54 +0530

A major development has emerged from Ayodhya in connection with the ongoing controversy surrounding alleged irregularities related to the Ram Janmabhoomi temple management. According to sources, the Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust is reviewing the role of around 100 employees who were reportedly appointed through recommendations, with the possibility of removing some staff members after an internal assessment. Sources indicate that the review follows findings from an SIT investigation, where the role of certain employees was reportedly examined in connection with the alleged donation-related irregularities case. However, the exact details of the investigation and the final action against individuals are yet to be officially confirmed by the Trust or investigating authorities. The Trust is reportedly conducting a broader review of staff requirements and administrative arrangements. Essential services at the temple, including security operations, cleanliness, and assistance for devotees, continue through different agencies and service providers. Questions have also been raised regarding appointments linked to various agencies working at the temple, with reports suggesting that recommendations by certain individuals may have influenced some recruitments. The Trust’s new office bearers are said to be examining whether all existing positions are necessary for the temple’s functioning. The reported move is being seen as an administrative review aimed at strengthening transparency and improving management systems. Further clarity is expected once the Trust officially communicates its decision or additional details emerge from the ongoing investigation. The Ram Janmabhoomi temple remains one of the most visited religious sites in India, making issues related to administration, security, and financial transparency a matter of significant public attention.

Jammu Kashmir Update: Doda Tension Rises After Youth Dies in SOG Firing, Security Tightened

ABP News Bureau — Fri, 17 Jul 2026 12:06:29 +0530

Tension has increased in Jammu and Kashmir’s Doda district after a local youth was allegedly shot dead during a confrontation involving Special Operations Group (SOG) personnel in the Bhaderwah area. The incident reportedly took place around 11:30 pm, following an argument between the security personnel and the local resident. The deceased has been identified as Mohammad Iqbal, a resident of Chikka village in Bhaderwah. According to the SOG’s version, an attempt was allegedly made to snatch a weapon from the personnel, leading to a physical altercation during which firing took place. The security unit has also claimed that three of its personnel were injured in the incident. Following the incident, authorities have increased security deployment in sensitive areas to maintain law and order. Internet services have also reportedly been suspended in the area as a precautionary measure. Police and paramilitary forces have been deployed to prevent any possible disturbance and ensure peace. The incident has triggered demands from local residents for a magistrate-level inquiry into the circumstances surrounding the death. Authorities are monitoring the situation closely, especially amid concerns over maintaining communal harmony and preventing any escalation. Officials have stated that the situation is currently under control, while security arrangements have been strengthened around Bhaderwah. The administration is also ensuring that further proceedings related to the deceased take place peacefully. The focus now remains on the investigation into the incident, the findings of any official inquiry, and maintaining stability in the sensitive region as security agencies continue to monitor developments.