SC Suggests Interim Prayer Space at Bhojshala; India Summons Iran Envoy as Seafarer Dies
The Supreme Court on Tuesday (July 14, 2026) refrained from restoring the status quo ante at the Bhojshala-Kamal Maula Mosque complex in Madhya Pradesh, but suggested creating a temporary prayer space for Muslims until the final decision on the site's religious character. The Madhya Pradesh High Court had earlier declared the complex a temple dedicated to Goddess Saraswati and barred Friday namaaz. The Supreme Court reasoned that it did not want to 'create tension' in a 'very sensitive' issue, indicating a delicate balance between competing claims.
In a separate development, the Ministry of External Affairs summoned the Iranian deputy envoy on Tuesday to lodge a strong protest after an Indian national was killed and 10 others injured in Iranian attacks on two oil tankers in the Strait of Hormuz. India demanded an immediate halt to such strikes, underscoring the need for de-escalation in the region.
Activist Sonam Wangchuk's health deteriorated as his indefinite hunger strike entered its 17th day. Cockroach Janta Party founder Abhijit Dipke said Wangchuk has started losing muscle mass and is in immense pain. The protest, now in its 25th day, highlights ongoing demands for political and social reforms in Ladakh.
The Supreme Court refused to revoke the bail granted to RJD president Lalu Prasad Yadav in the fodder scam cases, noting that it would not be appropriate to interfere with his liberty after six years. However, the court directed the Jharkhand High Court to decide pending criminal appeals against the suspension of his sentence within six months.
Dara Singh, the prime convict in the 1999 murder of Australian Christian missionary Graham Staines and his two sons, is likely to be released soon. The Odisha State Sentence Review Board recommended his release on grounds of 'good behaviour'. The decision has drawn mixed reactions, with some welcoming the rehabilitative approach and others expressing concern over the gravity of the crime.
The Central Board of Secondary Education acknowledged potential resource constraints in implementing the three-language scheme from 2026-27, but suggested that retired teachers and suitably qualified postgraduates could be recruited to teach the different 'Bharatiya Bhashas'. The move aims to promote linguistic diversity while addressing practical challenges.
India banned the import of goods manufactured using forced labour, a significant step that could facilitate an interim trade agreement with the United States. The notification aligns with global efforts to curb unethical labour practices and enhance trade partnerships.
India's imports from China surged 21.8% in the first half of 2026 to a record $79.41 billion, according to Chinese customs data. Exports to China also rose 37%, reflecting deepening economic ties despite ongoing geopolitical tensions.
India reaffirmed its support for Palestinian statehood and a two-state solution during a ministerial meeting of the Palestine Donor Group in Brussels. New Delhi's position was articulated by MEA Secretary Sripriya Ranganathan, underscoring India's consistent stance on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
In France, firefighters battled a forest fire near the historic Fontainebleau forest, and two people were arrested on suspicion of starting the blaze. The incident highlights the growing risk of wildfires in Europe during the summer months.
