Local Round-up: Supreme Court’s Aravalli Intervention, Smriti Mandhana’s Milestone, and ISRO’s Success

From landmark judicial interventions and record-breaking sporting achievements to decisive administrative action and scientific milestones, this week’s Local Round-up of headlines reflect India’s rapidly shifting legal, civic and cultural landscape, marked by accountability, innovation and urgent governance responses across states.

Supreme Court Takes Suo Motu Cognisance of Hills Verdict, Special Bench to Hear Case

The Supreme Court has taken suo motu cognisance of a verdict concerning the definition and protection of hill ranges, including the Aravallis. A special bench led by the Chief Justice of India is scheduled to hear the matter on Monday. The case is significant for environmental jurisprudence, as it may redefine conservation norms and impact mining, construction and urban expansion across ecologically sensitive hill regions in northern and western India.

Delhi Police Arrest Over 200 Ahead of New Year Under ‘Operation Aaghat 3.0’

Delhi Police intensified preventive measures ahead of New Year celebrations, arresting over 200 individuals during ‘Operation Aaghat 3.0’. The crackdown targeted habitual offenders, illegal arms holders and known troublemakers across south-east Delhi. Authorities said the drive aims to maintain public order during peak festivities. Increased patrolling, surveillance and verification checks have also been put in place to deter crime and ensure safety across the capital.

CBI Moves Supreme Court Against Suspension of Kuldeep Sengar’s Life Sentence

The Central Bureau of Investigation has approached the Supreme Court challenging the suspension of former Uttar Pradesh MLA Kuldeep Singh Sengar’s life sentence. The Delhi High Court had earlier granted interim relief citing medical grounds. The CBI argued that the suspension undermines the seriousness of the Unnao rape case and sought restoration of the sentence. The matter will test judicial balance between humanitarian considerations and accountability in grave criminal convictions.

Smriti Mandhana Becomes Fastest Woman to 10,000 International Runs

Indian cricketer Smriti Mandhana created history by becoming the fastest woman to score 10,000 international runs across formats. Achieving the milestone quicker than several global legends, Mandhana reaffirmed her status as one of modern cricket’s most consistent batters. The achievement adds to her growing list of records and highlights India’s rising dominance in women’s cricket, inspiring a new generation of young players across the country.

Bihar Registers Highest-Ever Team Total in List A Cricket History

Bihar scripted history in the Vijay Hazare Trophy by registering the highest team total in List A cricket, scoring 574 for six against Arunachal Pradesh in Ranchi. Multiple batting records were broken during the innings, including rapid centuries and partnerships. The achievement marks a rare but significant moment for Bihar cricket, drawing national attention to the state’s emerging talent and growing domestic competitiveness.

Teenage Cricket Prodigy Vaibhav Suryavanshi Receives Rashtriya Bal Puraskar

Fourteen-year-old cricketer Vaibhav Suryavanshi was conferred the Prime Minister Rashtriya Bal Puraskar following his role in Bihar’s record-breaking Vijay Hazare Trophy innings. Recognised for exceptional talent and discipline, Suryavanshi has emerged as one of India’s youngest cricketing sensations. His achievement underscores the growing impact of grassroots cricket and early talent identification in India’s domestic sporting ecosystem.

BMC Halts Bullet Train Construction at BKC Over Pollution Norm Violations

The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation has ordered an immediate halt to construction work on the Mumbai-Ahmedabad bullet train project at Bandra Kurla Complex. The decision followed violations of air pollution mitigation norms, including dust control measures. Authorities stated that work can resume only after compliance is ensured. The move reflects growing regulatory scrutiny of mega infrastructure projects in dense urban zones.

ISRO’s LVM3 Successfully Launches US Satellite BlueBird Block-2

ISRO’s heaviest rocket, LVM3-M6, successfully placed the US communication satellite BlueBird Block-2 into orbit, marking another milestone in India’s commercial space capabilities. The mission demonstrated the reliability of LVM3 for heavy payload launches and strengthened India’s position as a trusted global launch service provider. Officials highlighted the mission’s importance in expanding international partnerships and advancing space-based communication technologies.

Assam Flags Over 10 Lakh Voters for Deletion After Electoral Roll Revision

The Election Commission released Assam’s draft electoral rolls following a ‘special revision’, identifying over 10 lakh voters for deletion. Authorities cited reasons including duplication, migration and deaths. The exercise has sparked political debate, with concerns raised over transparency and voter disenfranchisement. Officials maintained that due process will be followed, allowing claims and objections before final publication of the rolls.

Delhi High Court Seeks Centre’s Response on GST Rates for Air Purifiers

The Delhi High Court questioned the Centre on why GST rates on air purifiers cannot be reduced, citing public health concerns amid severe air pollution. The court observed that such devices are increasingly essential rather than luxury items. The Centre has been asked to respond formally. The case could influence future tax policy on health-related consumer products in pollution-affected urban areas.

Uttarakhand Police Arrest 511 Under ‘Operation Kalnemi’, Including 19 Bangladesh Nationals

Uttarakhand Police arrested 511 people across three districts under ‘Operation Kalnemi’, including 19 Bangladeshi nationals. The operation targeted illegal immigrants, document fraud and organised criminal networks. Authorities described it as a coordinated intelligence-led crackdown aimed at maintaining internal security. Investigations are ongoing, with officials emphasising stricter monitoring of identity verification and cross-border movement.

Uttar Pradesh Schools to Remain Closed Until January 1 Amid Severe Cold Wave

All schools across Uttar Pradesh will remain shut until January 1 due to an intense cold wave sweeping the state. The decision was taken to protect children from extreme weather conditions, particularly during early morning hours. District administrations have been instructed to monitor weather advisories closely. The closure affects both government and private institutions, impacting millions of students across urban and rural regions.