Morning Digest | Former Kerala CM Oommen Chandy passes away; Name for Opposition alliance, a common secretariat likely today, and more
The Hindu
Morning Digest, July 18, 2023 | SC may refer Delhi Ordinance case to Const. Bench; ED takes in DMK Min. Ponmudy for questioning; Niti Aayog report claims decrease in multidimensional poverty; UAE Envoy clarifies rupee-dirham deal, and more
Name for Opposition alliance, a common secretariat likely today
Taking the next step towards constructing a more cohesive alliance, the Opposition parties are aiming to set up a common secretariat drawing representatives from each party, which will act as the strategic nerve centre to guide their campaign against the BJP ahead of the 2024 Lok Sabha election.
Former Kerala CM Oommen Chandy passes away at 79
Senior Congress leader Oommen Chandy, who served as Chief Minister of Kerala twice, died in Bengaluru in the early hours of July 18, his family said. He was 79.
Delhi Ordinance case: Supreme Court may refer case to Constitution Bench
The Supreme Court on July 17 said it may refer the Delhi government’s petition against a Central Ordinance, which effectively gives power over civil services in the National Capital to the Lieutenant Governor, to a Constitution Bench for an authoritative pronouncement.
Higher Education Minister Ponmudy taken in for questioning by ED
Israeli forces kill Palestinian militants responsible for bus attack in West Bank; Al Jazeera reporter arrested for covering Israeli operation.
Yemen's Houthi rebels release crew of hijacked ship amid ceasefire efforts, facing potential U.S. terrorism designation reinstatement.
Islamic State claims responsibility for killing Chinese national in Afghanistan, amid ongoing security concerns for Chinese investors.
Saudi Crown Prince plans to invest $600 billion in the U.S., strengthening economic ties and potential defense partnerships.
Trump's Justice Department freezes civil rights litigation, may reconsider police reform agreements, signaling major changes under new leadership.
Nepal increases Mount Everest climbing fees by 36%, introduces measures to control pollution, effective September 1, 2025.
Trump selects Sean Curran as director of U.S. Secret Service, citing his courage during assassination attempt.
LGBTQ+ couples in Thailand register their marriages on the first day of law giving them equal status
Thailand legalizes same-sex marriage, granting LGBTQ+ couples equal rights and recognition, marking a historic milestone in Asia.
Former Bangladesh Prime Minister Khaleda Zia acquitted in sabotage case after no evidence found, undergoing treatment in London.
China's relations with U.S. partners are evolving as Biden's legacy is questioned and Trump's return looms.
South Korea's anti-corruption agency transfers criminal investigation of impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol to prosecutors for indictment.
Republican-led House approves bill requiring detainment of unauthorized immigrants accused of theft and violent crimes, aligning with Trump's immigration crackdown.
India's External Affairs Minister discusses legal return of undocumented Indians from the US, emphasizing support for legal mobility.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio reaffirms support for Israel, discusses Iran, hostages, and peace efforts with Netanyahu.
Female student killed and another student wounded on January 22, 2025, in shooting in a Nashville high school cafeteria; Police Chief John Drake said the shooter ‘confronted’ the 16-year-old student in the cafeteria and opened fire, killing her.
U.S. President Donald Trump said on January 22, 2025, he would add new tariffs to his sanctions threat against Russia if the country does not make a deal to end its war in Ukraine, and added that these also could be applied to ‘other participating countries’
President Trump demands apology from Episcopal bishop after prayer service, sparking controversy over LGBTQ+ and migrant worker comments.
Panama complains to U.N. over Trump's threat to seize Panama Canal, launches audit of Hong Kong-linked operator.