In a troubling incident in Tral, Jammu and Kashmir, an army jawan on leave was shot in the leg by terrorists. He was promptly taken to a hospital and is currently in stable condition. Security forces have initiated a search operation to locate the attackers.
Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah criticized the Enforcement Directorate's (ED) communication to Lokayukta police regarding a land allotment case involving his wife. He called the ED's actions «prejudicial» and «politically motivated,» alleging an attempt to influence the court ahead of his hearing against the Governor's sanction to investigate the case.
The deceased identified as Anila (44) from Thazhuthala, succumbed to her injuries on the spot and the accused, Padmarajan (60), surrendered to the Kollam East police shortly afterwards.
Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Wednesday expressed her sorrow over the lack of compensation for the victims of the Wayanad landslide emphasizing that the central government's inaction sends a negative message to the entire country, particularly to the victims who have lost everything.
Delhi's Rouse Avenue court granted bail to AAP MLA Naresh Balyan, arrested on November 30 in an extortion case. Police alleged Balyan's involvement with a gang threatening property owners to sell assets at lower prices. While police sought extended custody to confront Balyan with new victims, the court deemed further detention unnecessary.
A 16-year-old Ukrainian girl has been detained, accused of treason for allegedly providing Russia with information about air defense systems in the Chernigiv region. She reportedly used encrypted messaging apps to share intelligence gathered during taxi rides. Separately, six individuals were arrested for suspected sabotage and arson attacks on critical infrastructure.
The Assam government has banned beef consumption in restaurants, hotels, and public spaces statewide. Chief minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced the decision, expanding a previous ban near temples. This follows accusations by Congress leaders that the BJP distributed beef during recent bypolls, prompting Sarma to challenge the Congress to support the ban.
External affairs minister Jaishankar addressed Parliament on the India-China border situation, outlining steps towards restoring peace. Following the 2020 clashes, disengagement has been achieved, and de-escalation efforts are underway, including resuming patrols. India's approach emphasizes respecting the LAC and existing agreements. Normalizing relations depends on sustained peace and tranquillity along the border.
Union Rural Development Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan addressed the stalled MGNREGS funds for West Bengal, stating that the Centre isn't discriminating but has withheld funds since March 2022 due to the state's non-compliance with directives. Chouhan emphasized that funds will be released upon compliance, highlighting that other schemes like PMGSY haven't faced similar issues due to adherence to guidelines.
Railway minister Ashwini Vaishnaw suggested that Congress MP Shashi Tharoor stage a protest to push for land acquisition for the delayed Nemom railway terminal project in Thiruvananthapuram. Tharoor expressed concerns about inadequate funding, hindering construction during Kerala's favorable weather conditions.
A foiled assassination attempt on Shiromani Akali Dal President Sukhbir Singh Badal at the Golden Temple sparked political controversy. Arvind Kejriwal condemned the attack and blamed larger forces, while the BJP criticized the AAP government for Punjab's deteriorating law and order situation. The assailant, a former militant, was apprehended.
AAP MP Raghav Chadha addressed air travel concerns in Rajya Sabha. He pointed out the unaffordability of economy class tickets. Chadha cited examples of high fares from Delhi to various cities. He also mentioned overcrowded airports and baggage issues. He criticized expensive parking charges impacting travelers and cab users.
Rahul Gandhi, the Lok Sabha opposition leader, was prevented by police from visiting violence-stricken Sambhal. The acting Lok Sabha speaker questioned Gandhi's absence from Parliament during the incident. Gandhi asserted his right to visit as LoP, claiming the police action was unconstitutional. Clashes in Sambhal following a court-ordered mosque survey resulted in five deaths and numerous injuries.
BJP leader Devendra Fadnavis will be sworn in as Maharashtra's chief minister for a third time on December 5 after being chosen as the BJP legislature party leader. The party won 132 out of 288 assembly seats, forming a strong coalition with Shiv Sena and NCP. Fadnavis has a notable political career since 1992.
Devendra Fadnavis has been elected as the BJP's legislative party leader in Maharashtra and is set to be sworn in as Chief Minister on December 5th, 2024. The oath-taking ceremony will take place at Azad Maidan in Mumbai, with Prime Minister Modi expected to attend. The BJP-led Mahayuti alliance secured a landslide victory in the state assembly elections.
Congress MP Gaurav Gogoi criticized Infosys co-founder Narayana Murthy's view on a 70-hour workweek, rejecting the notion of neglecting work-life balance. Gogoi argued that life encompasses family responsibilities, equally shared by men and women, a choice often unavailable to working women.
Former Shrimoni Akali Dal president Sukhwinder Singh Badal survived an assassination attempt at the Golden Temple while performing 'Seva'. The assailant, Narain Singh Chaura, was apprehended by police. Despite the attempt, Badal will continue his religious penance. An independent investigation will be carried out by the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee.
After an assassination attempt, Shiromani Akali Dal leader Sukhbir Singh Badal was spotted washing utensils at the Golden Temple, continuing his 'seva'. The attack, which occurred while Badal was fulfilling his duties, ended without injury thanks to the intervention of bystanders, resulting in the immediate apprehension of assailant Narain Singh.
Uttar Pradesh police increased security in several districts as Rahul Gandhi and Congress MPs plan to visit Sambhal. Prohibitory orders are extended till December 31. The district administration denied their visit after November 24 clashes led to deaths and injuries, including police personnel, during a court-mandated survey of the Jama Masjid, claimed to be originally a temple.
Amid uncertainty over Maharashtra's new chief minister, posters suggesting Devendra Fadnavis as the frontrunner were seen in Mumbai. A significant BJP meeting is set to decide the leader, who will stake a claim to form the government. Preparations for the swearing-in ceremony at Azad Maidan are underway, with several VVIPs, including the Prime Minister, expected to attend.
Opposition leaders criticized the AAP government in Punjab for a security failure at the Golden Temple where a man fired at SAD leader Sukhbir Singh Badal. BJP, SAD, and Congress leaders condemned the incident, calling for a judicial enquiry and highlighting the deteriorating law and order situation, with demands for accountability and strict punishment for the attacker.
A Congress delegation raised concerns with the Election Commission over anomalies in Maharashtra electoral rolls and post-poll voter turnout surge. The EC responded with clarifications, noting additions matched population growth and deletions were minimal. Procedural formalities caused the voter turnout gap. The EC urged Congress to raise objections during the draft roll scrutiny.
Israel’s economy minister Nir Barkat highlighted the challenge posed by Iran and its proxies in West Asia. He emphasized Israel's goals in Gaza to eliminate Hamas and secure hostages, while supporting stronger economic ties with India. Barkat also reaffirmed Israel's willingness to normalize relations with Saudi Arabia and praised India's support for Israel.