Protests erupted in Badlapur, Thane district, after two nursery students were allegedly sexually assaulted by a male attendant at a local school. The incident led to a ‘rail roko’ agitation where protesters blocked railway tracks, pelting stones at police. The Maharashtra government has responded by ordering an SIT investigation and a fast-track trial for the accused.
Protesters against Israel’s ongoing war in Gaza briefly breached the outer security fence at the Democratic National Convention in Chicago, highlighting the divisive nature of the conflict within the party. Despite the security lapse, President Biden emphasized his administration’s commitment to peace and a ceasefire in his speech.
Thousands of people gathered at Central Railway station in Mumbai, protesting the alleged sexual assault of a young girl by a school sweeper in Badlapur, Maharashtra. The protests led to the temporary suspension of local train services.
The Reservation Bachao Sangharsh Samiti has called for a Bharat Bandh ( nationwide shutdown) on August 21st to protest the Supreme Court’s ruling on reservations for Scheduled Castes (SC) and Scheduled Tribes (ST). The decision, which allows states to create sub-categories within SC/ST groups for reservation benefits, has sparked widespread controversy and protests. Police across India are on high alert to maintain law and order during the bandh.
A bipartisan group of House lawmakers is introducing a bill to block funding for UN agencies that restrict Israel’s participation in global affairs. This move comes amid anti-Israel protests at the Democratic National Convention in Chicago, where demonstrators are calling for policy changes on Gaza. The bill aims to reaffirm US support for Israel and counter the perceived bias against Israel at the UN.
As the Democratic National Convention kicks off in Chicago, the city is bracing for a week of protests, primarily focused on opposing Israel. Demonstrators are expected to clash with police, leading to heightened security measures around the convention center and throughout the city.
Protests continue in Kolkata over the rape and murder of a trainee doctor at RG Kar Hospital. Doctors are demanding justice and have staged demonstrations, including a human chain blocking roads. The CBI is investigating the case from four angles and has received permission to conduct a polygraph test on the arrested suspect. The Supreme Court has taken suo moto cognizance of the case.
Hundreds of protesters, organized by a coalition of feminist and LGBTQ+ groups, marched through downtown Chicago the day before the Democratic National Convention. The rally, initially focused on protesting unjust laws, quickly transitioned into a pro-Palestinian demonstration, drawing a large crowd and prompting a heavy police presence to ensure safety.
As the Democratic National Convention kicks off in Chicago, thousands of anti-Israel protesters are expected to gather, demanding the U.S. cut off aid to Israel and end the war in Gaza. Meanwhile, pro-Israel groups will also hold rallies, highlighting the ongoing hostage situation. Chicago officials have pledged to protect the right to protest, while also vowing to prevent any destruction.
Supporters of Kolkata’s major football clubs, East Bengal and Mohun Bagan, along with Mohammedan SC fans, gathered near the Salt Lake Stadium to protest the alleged rape and murder of a doctor at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital. The planned Durand Cup match between East Bengal and Mohun Bagan was cancelled due to concerns over law and order, leading to further frustration among the protesters. The protests turned violent as police attempted to disperse the crowd, with some protesters being detained. The incident highlights the growing unrest and security concerns in the city following the tragic incident at RG Kar Hospital.
