2029 UCC Deadline Set For BJP-Ruled States As NDA Allies Voice Differences

A special ground report from the Khardung La pass in Ladakh, situated at around 18,000 feet above sea level, details the significant transformation in road infrastructure and connectivity over the past two decades. Maintained by the Border Roads Organisation, the route serves as a vital strategic link connecting Leh to the Nubra Valley, Pangong Tso, and the Siachen Glacier base camp. Following the Eastern Ladakh standoff in the Galwan sector, the Ministry of Defence prioritised round-the-year connectivity along the Line of Actual Control. The improved roads have driven an increase in tourism and attracted endurance athletes participating in the Ladakh marathon. Visitors and runners from various parts of India and abroad note the extreme physical challenges posed by low oxygen levels at high altitudes, stressing the necessity of gradual acclimatisation and proper hydration while praising the infrastructure development in harsh mountainous terrain.

A revised Merchant Discount Rate framework for UPI payments is set to take effect starting October 15, 2026, applying exclusively to select person-to-merchant commercial transactions. Under the updated framework, transactions up to two thousand rupees, which account for more than ninety-five per cent of UPI volume, will remain completely free of cost for all consumers and merchants. Small merchants earning up to one lakh rupees monthly through QR codes will also continue paying zero MDR. For commercial transactions exceeding two thousand rupees, an MDR of zero point four per cent will apply, capped at three hundred rupees for amounts of seventy-five thousand rupees and above. Specific categories such as railways and fuel will attract a flat five-rupee charge. Individual person-to-person transfers will face no charges. The initiative also establishes a dedicated fund to upgrade digital payment infrastructure across small vendor networks and tier-three markets, ensuring sustainability across the financial ecosystem.

A debate has emerged over actor Vijay Sethupathi's remarks as the host of Tamil Bigg Boss, with comments on leadership and accountability being interpreted by many as subtle political commentary. Broadcaster Vijay TV issued a statement clarifying that the comments had no connection to politics and were purely fictional. Vijay Sethupathi has not commented on the matter.

A political confrontation has escalated between the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam and Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam over remarks regarding former Chief Minister M. Karunanidhi and the Maintenance of Internal Security Act detention legacy of M.K. Stalin. DMK legislators have submitted a breach of privilege notice to the Tamil Nadu Assembly Speaker against Minister CTR Nirmal Kumar, accusing him of providing false information in the House. The development follows controversy over comments questioning the nature of Stalin's detention during the Emergency. Several DMK leaders also face legal action for making retaliatory derogatory remarks during the ongoing political war of words.