Evening edition
Daily current affairs for UPSC, BPSC, State PCS and PSC exams.
Why in news?
India won the gold medal in the men's kabaddi final at the Asian Games 2026, continuing a strong performance that also saw the women's team clinch gold, and individual successes in squash and marathon.
Key points
- India defeated Iran in the men's kabaddi final to win the gold medal.
- The Indian women's kabaddi team also secured a gold medal by beating Iran.
- Squash player Anahat Singh reached the women's singles final, and Abhay Singh advanced to the men's singles final.
- Sawan Barwal won a historic silver medal in the men's marathon, setting a new national record.
- Dhiraj Bommadevara, a recurve archer, is a strong contender after recent World Cup triumphs.
Background & context
The Asian Games are a continental multi-sport event held every four years. Kabaddi is a traditional South Asian sport that has been a part of the Asian Games program.
★ Prelims fact capsule
Sawan Barwal set a new national record while winning a silver medal in the men's marathon at the Asian Games 2026.
✎ Mains relevance
GS Paper 1: Art and Culture (Sports), GS Paper 2: International Relations (Bilateral sports events), GS Paper 4: Ethics (Sportsmanship)
Why in news?
Journalists were allegedly prevented from questioning Kerala CM V.D. Satheesan by police citing security reasons. This follows allegations against the CM regarding financial transactions and the use of a chartered flight.
Key points
- Assistant Commissioner of Kochi police reportedly stopped journalists from questioning CM V.D. Satheesan.
- Security reasons and Z Plus security category were cited for the restriction.
- The CM had previously refused to answer media queries about allegations of receiving money from CMRL and using a benefactor's chartered flight.
- Anto Augustine, a media executive, faces anticipatory bail pleas related to alleged fraud and a case involving allegations against the CM's marriage.
Background & context
Freedom of the press and the right to information are crucial aspects of democratic governance. Ensuring transparency and accountability of public officials is a key principle.
★ Prelims fact capsule
CM V.D. Satheesan is reportedly in the Z Plus security category, which was cited as a reason to restrict media access.
✎ Mains relevance
GS Paper 2: Polity (Federalism, Role of media, Governance), GS Paper 4: Ethics (Accountability, Transparency)
Why in news?
The Supreme Court has ordered the sealing of over 16,000 properties and demolition of illegal structures in Meerut, Uttar Pradesh, due to unauthorized constructions and commercial use of residential properties.
Key points
- Over 16,000 properties in Meerut have been identified as illegal or unauthorized.
- A judicial commission, led by former SC judge Justice Sudhanshu Dhulia, has been formed to investigate the development of illegal residential colonies.
- The order comes in response to a contempt petition regarding non-compliance with previous directives.
- The constructions are concentrated in Uldepur and fall across different zones of the city.
Background & context
Urban planning and development regulations are crucial for orderly growth. Illegal constructions can lead to issues related to safety, infrastructure strain, and environmental degradation.
★ Prelims fact capsule
The Supreme Court has directed the sealing of over 16,000 properties and demolition of illegal structures in Meerut.
✎ Mains relevance
GS Paper 1: Society (Urbanization), GS Paper 2: Governance (Judiciary, Urban Planning), GS Paper 3: Environment (Impact of unplanned development)