EU online child safety push holds platforms firm and lets parents off easy

• European researchers are struggling to access necessary data from Big Tech companies like TikTok, X, and Meta to study the societal harms caused by social media. • Despite EU laws granting researchers unprecedented rights to scrutinize these platforms, the companies are reportedly restricting access and controlling who can view their internal data.

• The Union Cabinet has approved a new bill aimed at imposing stricter punishments for paper leaks to ensure examination integrity. • The Parliament's Monsoon Session 2026 remained deadlocked for a fourth consecutive day on Thursday due to opposition demands.

• The Citizens' Justice Project (CJP) met with Union Ministers at Jantar Mantar, reiterating that the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan is a non-negotiable demand. • The protest coincides with activist Sonam Wangchuk ending his fast, marking a shift in the movement's immediate tactics.

• Activist Sonam Wangchuk has ended his fast after receiving written assurances from the government to withdraw cases against non-violent students. • The government further committed to considering financial compensation for the families of students who committed suicide.

• Republican lawmakers are considering new legislation to establish term limits or rules regarding prolonged incapacity for congressional leaders following health concerns over Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell. • The proposed "Three strokes and you’re out" concept suggests a mechanism to remove leaders who are medically unable to perform their duties.

• Germany's top court is currently deliberating whether the national parliament requires a legislative "speed limit" to regulate the pace of lawmaking. • Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock concluded a two-day visit to Nigeria on Wednesday, aiming to strengthen trade ties and business opportunities across Africa.

• EU member states have adopted a temporary regulatory regime that allows messaging services to voluntarily scan for child sexual abuse material (CSAM). • The current framework is set to remain in place until 2028, providing a transitional period for the implementation of detection measures.

• The Lok Sabha was adjourned for the day during the 2026 Monsoon Session following intense protests by Opposition members. • Protesting lawmakers are demanding the immediate resignation of Minister Kiren Pradhan, though the specific cause of the grievance was not detailed.

• The deadlock between the CJP and the government has intensified, leading to the announcement of nationwide protests scheduled for tomorrow. • Protesters have rejected a government offer to hold talks at the health minister's residence, while authorities suspended mobile internet services around Jantar Mantar.

• Prime Minister Narendra Modi has vowed to punish officials responsible for widespread exam leaks, stating that those harming the future of India's youth "will not be spared." • The scandal has sparked massive protests led by the "Cockroach Janta party" (CJP), a satirical movement named after a top judge who referred to unemployed youths as "cockroaches."

• Prime Minister Narendra Modi issued a rare late-night selfie message addressing students and parents following protests by the CJP regarding paper leaks. • The Prime Minister stated that the government recognizes the gravity of the crisis and is committed to resolving the issues surrounding examination integrity.