HT First Read Aug 31: ED steps into NEET-UG leak case, 2 shooters in singer's murder killed

The Enforcement Directorate has formally requested the Central Bureau of Investigation's complete case files related to the alleged NEET-UG 2026 paper leak, as they investigate the financial aspects behind the examination scandal, according to sources familiar with the development. This move may provide a new angle to the ongoing investigation.

On Sunday, India and Uzbekistan upgraded their relationship to a comprehensive strategic partnership, set a goal of $5 billion in annual trade by 2030, and agreed to collaborate on long-term uranium supply during talks between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Shavkat Mirziyoyev in Tashkent. This marked Modi's fourth visit to Uzbekistan, whom he described as central to India's engagement in Central Asia.

In Uttar Pradesh, two suspected shooters in the murder of Haryanvi singer and actor Ankit Baliyan were killed in an alleged encounter. Baliyan was found dead in Shamli district after stepping out of a gym on Wednesday evening. A viral social media post claiming responsibility for the murder is suspected to belong to the Gogi gang. The police have not disclosed further details about the encounter.

A three-year-old boy was allegedly physically abused at a playschool with international branches in northeast Delhi's Maujpur for several days. His parents noticed behavioral changes and bruises, leading to a doctor confirming signs of assault. CCTV footage from the school revealed the abuse. The alleged abuser, a teacher, the principal, and the school director have been booked. The parents also accused the attendant of possible sexual harassment. An attendant has been arrested in connection with the case.