Mayawati has pardoned her nephew, Akash Anand, and reinstated him into the Bahujan Samaj Party after his public apology for prioritizing his father-in-law's influence over the party's interests. Akash pledged allegiance to Mayawati and vowed to avoid external influence in his political decisions. However, Mayawati has firmly rejected any possibility of reconciliation with Akash's father-in-law, citing his anti-party activities.
Ambedkar Jayanti, a national holiday on April 14, 2025, will commemorate Dr. B.R. Ambedkar's birth anniversary. Government offices, banks (except in select states), post offices, courts, schools, and stock markets will be closed. Digital banking will remain operational. Celebrations are expected across India, particularly in states like Tamil Nadu and Maharashtra, honoring Ambedkar's legacy of social justice and equality.
In West Bengal's Murshidabad, rioters protesting the Waqf (Amendment) Act clashed with Border Security Force personnel, resulting in a tense situation. BSF troops were attacked with petrol bombs and stones, prompting the deployment of additional forces in affected areas.
After months of setbacks following a collapse in November 2023, the Silkyara tunnel project in Uttarakhand is set to achieve a breakthrough on Wednesday. Excavation will be completed, paving the way for the 4.5 km tunnel to be operational within a year. Despite a probe revealing negligence, the government has decided to proceed with the Char Dham Road connectivity project.
India has achieved a significant milestone in defense technology by successfully testing a 30-kilowatt laser weapon capable of neutralizing aircraft, missiles, and drone swarms, developed by DRDO and ready for deployment. Meanwhile, China urges the US to completely remove reciprocal tariffs. In Punjab, a controversy arose after police questioned a Congress MLA following remarks critical of the Chief Minister.
India is poised to receive its first fifth-generation stealth fighter jet, the AMCA, by 2035, as announced by DRDO chairman Samir V Kamat. DRDO is also planning to collaborate with a foreign OEM for aero-engine development. Furthermore, DRDO demonstrated its laser-based weapon system capable of neutralizing aerial threats, joining an elite group of nations with such capabilities.
In Silchar, Assam, a clash erupted on Sunday between police and demonstrators protesting the Waqf (Amendment) Act. Hundreds gathered in Berenga, blocking roads and allegedly throwing stones, prompting a baton charge by police to disperse the unauthorized protest.
Maharashtra's Deputy CM Eknath Shinde dismissed rumors of discord within the Mahayuti alliance, clarifying his meeting with Union Minister Amit Shah focused on state development projects. Speculation arose after appointments of guardian ministers and concerns over ministry files and reversed decisions. The BJP defended Shinde, stating he would address issues directly with Deputy CM Ajit Pawar.
Tamil Nadu Governor RN Ravi ignited controversy by urging students to chant «Jai Shri Ram» at a Madurai college event. Congress MLA JMH Hassan Maulaana strongly criticized Ravi, accusing him of promoting RSS and BJP ideologies and behaving like a religious leader rather than upholding the neutrality expected of his constitutional role.
Karnataka's Deputy CM, DK Shivakumar, has stated that the state government will not make any hasty decisions regarding the 'caste census' report. The report, which was recently presented to the cabinet, suggests increasing the OBC quota to 51%. Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge refrained from commenting until he reviews the report, while dominant communities express reservations about the survey.
Nasa released stunning nighttime images from the International Space Station, showcasing illuminated regions across the globe. One captivating photograph features India, glowing with city lights under a starlit sky. The series also includes views of the cloud-covered Midwest United States, Southeast Asia, and Canada with a faint green aurora, sparking social media appreciation.
Following communal violence in Dhulian, Murshidabad, BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari claimed over 400 Hindus fled their homes, blaming the Trinamool Congress' appeasement policies. He posted images of displaced families on X and urged central forces to ensure their safe return, criticizing the state government for the breakdown of law and order.
BJP spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla criticized TMC MP Yusuf Pathan for his relaxed social media post amidst violent unrest in West Bengal, particularly in Murshidabad. Poonawalla accused Pathan and TMC of prioritizing personal enjoyment over addressing the state's crisis, where Hindus are allegedly targeted.
The NIA is intensifying its investigation into Tahawwur Rana's role in the 26/11 Mumbai attacks, scrutinizing his connections to a Dubai-based individual potentially linked to Dawood Ibrahim's D-Company. Investigators are analysing phone calls between Rana and Headley, exploring possible ISI and LeT ties, and examining Rana's pre-attack visits to India.
Following unrest in Murshidabad, West Bengal, triggered by the amended Waqf law, authorities have arrested over 150 individuals and deployed BSF forces to restore peace. The Calcutta HC mandated the deployment after violence erupted, resulting in three deaths and widespread unrest across several districts. Political tensions escalate as BJP criticises Mamata Banerjee's government.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi commemorated the victims of the Jallianwala Bagh massacre on Sunday, emphasizing their unwavering spirit. He noted that the tragic event, where peaceful protesters were killed by British forces in 1919, remains a dark chapter in India's history. Modi added that their sacrifice significantly influenced India's fight for independence, ensuring their memory endures for future generations.
A Russian missile struck a warehouse belonging to Kusum Healthcare, an Indian pharmaceutical company, in Ukraine, prompting condemnation from the Ukrainian embassy, which alleged a deliberate targeting of Indian businesses. While details on damage and casualties remain scarce, the incident has yet to elicit comment from the Indian or Russian governments.