The Chamoli tunnel disaster dominated the day's headlines, with the death toll rising from six to seven and rescue operations continuing for three missing workers. The incident, which began the previous evening, saw water and debris flood an under-construction tunnel, trapping 22 workers. Throughout the day, outlets updated casualty figures and highlighted the challenging conditions, including chest-deep water and sludge. In parallel, the Bar Council of India's U-turn on suspending NALSAR graduates' enrolment drew sharp rebuke from Chief Justice Surya Kant, who called the interference 'uncalled for' and asserted the matter was between him and the students. Other significant stories included the US naming India among 40 countries enabling China's tariff evasion, the Supreme Court quashing FIRs against comedian Samay Raina, and President Murmu's Independence Day eve address focusing on youth and exam reforms.