The Indian government's decision to include caste enumeration in the upcoming census aims to consolidate Hindu unity and counter attempts to divide the population along caste lines. Sources suggest the move, following discussions between PM Modi and RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat, intends to prevent the splintering of the OBC-Dalit-Muslim coalition.
The BJP and NDA allies celebrated the Modi government's decision to conduct a caste enumeration in the upcoming census, framing it as a historic move towards social equality. Leaders like Amit Shah, Rajnath Singh, and J.P. Nadda praised the decision's potential to empower backward classes and promote inclusion.
Following the Pahalgam attack, a government directive has led to the expulsion of numerous Pakistani nationals, primarily women married to Indian men, creating emotional turmoil at the Attari-Wagah border. Sara Khan, a new mother, was forced to leave despite her recent C-section and her baby's Indian citizenship. Other families face separation, highlighting the human cost of the policy.
Following the Pahalgam massacre, India is considering punitive military actions against Pakistan, focusing on long-range strikes without crossing the LoC. The Indian Army has been authorized to respond decisively to terrorism, with plans in place for calibrated responses.
In the wake of the Pahalgam terror attack and emerging Pakistan links, the Centre has revamped the National Security Advisory Board (NSAB). Former RAW chief Alok Joshi has been appointed as chairman, leading a team of 14 experts from diverse fields. This reconstitution aims to strengthen intelligence gathering and analysis to counter Pakistan-sponsored terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir.
A Kashmiri Pandit organisation, KPSS, has threatened mass migration from Kashmir Valley if immediate security isn't provided around their settlements and religious sites. Citing intelligence reports of imminent danger from TRF, KPSS President Sanjay Tickoo demanded community-specific protection.
Pakistan received an official warning about a potential Indian military offensive, leading to heightened tensions and claims of airspace violations. Amidst denials of involvement in a terrorist attack and accusations of escalating tensions, both sides face domestic pressures and international calls for dialogue. With authorized operational freedom for forces and family relocations, the risk of conflict looms large.
Pakistan has vehemently denied India's accusations regarding the Pahalgam attack, asserting that any aggression, including water diversion or military action, would be met with a strong response. Pakistani officials presented what they claimed was evidence of India's orchestrated narrative, accusing New Delhi of stoking regional instability with false claims.
Following the Pahalgam terror attack, ISI and the Pakistan government have heightened security for Lashkar-e-Taiba chief Hafiz Saeed, fearing a covert operation. Former Special Service Group commandos have been assigned to his protection, with increased security at his residences. Lawrence Bishnoi syndicate has also threatened retaliation for the Pahalgam killings, vowing to target a high-value individual in Pakistan.
India has prohibited Pakistan-registered aircraft, including military planes, from using its airspace, effective from midnight April 30-May 1 until May 23, 2025. This restriction applies to all aircraft registered in Pakistan or operated by Pakistani entities, covering all Indian airspace regions.
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami have welcomed the Union Cabinet's decision to include caste enumeration in the upcoming census. Adityanath believes this move will bring social justice and data-driven governance.
Drawing inspiration from Keynes's warning against clinging to outdated notions, the article provocatively suggests a future where a booming India could manage a stagnant Britain. This non-military arrangement, driven by economic self-interest, envisions India revitalizing British growth while preserving its political system and royal traditions. The proposal highlights existing Indo-British ties and the potential for mutual benefit.
West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee inaugurated the Jagannath Dham Temple in Digha amid political controversy. The BJP criticized the temple's state funding, calling Banerjee a «fake Hindu» and accusing her of minority appeasement. TMC leaders defended the project, questioning the BJP's definition of Hinduism. The Rs 250 crore temple project, envisaged by Banerjee in 2018 and built over 20 acres, was personally overseen by the chief minister who visited the site twice in the run-up to the inauguration.
India's government approved caste enumeration in the upcoming census, sparking both support and controversy. Amidst tensions following the Pahalgam terror attack, PM Modi skipped Russia's Victory Day Parade, with Defence Minister Rajnath Singh attending instead. In Bangladesh, Hindu leader Chinmoy Krishna Das received bail in a sedition case. Meanwhile, Donald Trump criticized Congressman Shri Thanedar for initiating impeachment proceedings.
The government has confirmed the inclusion of caste enumeration in the upcoming national census, a move welcomed by leaders across party lines. Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw emphasized the government's commitment to a transparent census, contrasting it with state-led surveys. While many leaders supported the decision, some like Tejashwi Yadav credited Lalu ji for initiating the fight for caste census.
Congress leader Rahul Gandhi welcomed the union cabinet's decision to conduct a caste census, emphasising it as the initial step towards comprehensive social reform. He urged the government to provide a clear timeline for completion, highlighting public and political pressure as key drivers.
India is set to include caste enumeration in its upcoming census, a practice discontinued post-independence except for SCs and STs. This decision, driven by political and social demands, aims to provide insights into caste-based socio-economic disparities. The data could reshape affirmative action policies and address inequalities, though some fear it may reinforce divisions.
The Union Cabinet has approved a high-speed corridor connecting Meghalaya and Assam, aiming to boost connectivity and economic growth in the Northeast. Additionally, the fair and remunerative price of sugarcane has been increased to Rs 355 per quintal for the 2025-26 season.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to attend Russia's Victory Day Parade in Moscow on May 9, as confirmed by Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov. This decision occurs amidst heightened tensions with Pakistan following the Pahalgam terror attack.
Following the Pahalgam terrorist attack, the Cabinet Committee on Security, led by PM Modi, convened to discuss India's response, granting the armed forces operational freedom. Earlier punitive measures were decided, including potential Indus Waters Treaty suspension, border closure and downgraded diplomatic ties. Pakistan retaliated by closing airspace and suspending trade.
The Supreme Court dismissed a petition seeking a probe into the death of Uttar Pradesh gangster-turned-politician Mukhtar Ansari, who died in prison due to a heart attack last year. Umar Ansari, Mukhtar's son, filed the plea alleging the judicial inquiry report into his father's death was not received. The court suggested Umar approach the Allahabad High Court for further action.
The Union Cabinet has decided to include a caste enumeration in the upcoming national census, as announced by Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw. He criticized the Congress party for their alleged historical opposition to such a census, while also pointing out the non-transparent and politically motivated caste surveys conducted by some state governments.
Following the tragic terror attack in Pahalgam that killed 26 tourists, Jammu and Kashmir minister Javed Ahmed Rana has passionately appealed for peace. He urged the central government to avoid war, emphasizing that it hinders India's aspiration to become a 'Vishwa Guru'.
The government has revamped the National Security Advisory Board, appointing Alok Joshi, the former R&AW chief, as its Chairman. The reconstituted board includes retired officers from the military and police services, along with a retired IFS officer. This multi-disciplinary body will provide long-term analysis and policy recommendations to the National Security Council.
The Israeli Embassy in India refuted a purported note verbale accusing an Indian Army officer of sexual assault during a joint exercise, labeling it «fake news.» Emphasizing the strong India-Israel bond, the embassy asserted that such attempts to harm relations would fail.
APCC president YS Sharmila alleged that the Chandrababu Naidu-led government placed her under house arrest at her Vijayawada villa. She questioned the reason for her confinement and accused the government of curtailing constitutional rights by preventing her from going to the Congress office. Sharmila demanded an explanation from the Chief Minister regarding the government's actions.
The Supreme Court has mandated changes to the digital KYC process, ensuring accessibility for persons with disabilities, including those with facial disfigurements and visual impairments. The court emphasized that digital access is a crucial component of the right to life under Article 21.